Tyrin Truong, who made history as the youngest mayor of Bogalusa, Louisiana at the age of 23, has reportedly been arrested as part of a drug-trafficking investigation.
He faces charges for illegal drug transactions and soliciting sex work.Truong, who is now 25 years old, is accused of using social media to distribute illegal drugs and manage payments.
Investigators also say profits from these sales were used to buy firearms, some of which were linked to violent crimes in the area.
Along with Truong, six others, including MacKenzie Lynn Cefalu and De-Saleem Wali Pittman, are facing similar charges related to drug profits.
The investigation involved drugs such as opioids, MDMA, marijuana, and THC products. Truong is also accused of using public funds to rent a home, where he allegedly “organized entertainment with” a sex worker during a mayor’s conference in Atlanta.
Truong, a Democrat, gained attention for his mayoral win, with a focus on reducing crime and corruption in a city with a troubled past.
Truong’s arrest follows prior political challenges, including compliance issues with state audit laws. Although he has not commented on the charges, he recently delivered a State of the City address, urging more understanding and grace.
“I am not different,” Truong said. “I appreciate the trust and confidence you have placed in me, and I don’t take it lightly. Every day, we aim to get better.
“And I ask that we all extend more grace to one another. Mistakes will be made — as they have been. But I was always taught that you get back up, brush it off and apply the lesson for [the] future.”
Truong was released on bail, and local authorities have promised to continue working on the city’s issues.
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