Three Indictments Returned by Caddo Grand Jury

A Caddo Parish Grand Jury returns true bills in three separate cases -- one involving a mother accused in the death of her toddler and two dealing with sex crimes against juveniles.

According to a Caddo District Attorney's Office news release, a charge of manslaughter was returned against 32-year-old Brandy Shackelford of Shreveport. She was arrested in late May following the death of her 2-year-old son, Richard Malott.

The toddler and a 7-year-old child were removed the previous day from their home in the 6200 block of Buncombe Road after police responded to reports that the children had suffered bruises to several areas of their bodies.

Also indicted were 81-year-old James Dickens and 23-year-old Clifford Meshell, both of Shreveport. Their indictments were placed under seal due to the ages of the victims.

Dickens is charged with two counts of aggravated and/or first-degree rape of a person under the age of 13, indecent behavior with juveniles under age 13, and sexual battery. He was released August 3 after posting bond, but that bond has now been revoked.

Meshell is charged with two counts of first-degree rape of a person under age 13, five counts of indecent behavior with juveniles under age 13, and sexual battery of a victim under age 13. His bond has been increased from $100,000 to $1-million.

Shackelford and Meshell are incarcerated at Caddo Correctional Center. Dickens hasn't been located. Anyone who knows where he might be should call the Caddo Sheriff's Office.