Jolie Apartments Scandal Sparks New Felony Landlord Bill

Shreveport State Representative Steven Jackson told KEEL News on Wedneday that his proposed legislation isn’t about punishing landlords, it’s about accountability. His bill, sparked by high-profile cases like the Jolie Apartments scandal, aims to make it a felony to collect rent that’s supposed to include utilities and then fail to pay those utility bills. “They are stealing it,” Jackson said bluntly. “This isn’t just bad management. It’s fraud, followed by theft.” 

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In the Jolie Apartments case, tenants paid their rent under the impression that water service would be covered. Instead, the landlord—shielded behind an LLC— allegedly pocketed the money while the city threatened disconnections. Jackson's bill addresses that loophole by holding both natural and juridical persons (like LLCs) accountable. 

How the Bill Would Work 

Under Jackson’s proposal, the responsible party—whether an individual or someone operating behind a corporate shield—could face felony charges for knowingly taking payments and failing to remit them to utility providers. The goal is to give prosecutors and law enforcement the tools they’ve lacked until now. 

“This gives DAs a real statute to work with and gives police and sheriffs a clear path to investigate,” Jackson said. 

The bill has picked up interest statewide, with energy providers like SWEPCO and Entergy reaching out to support it. According to Jackson, this is not just a Shreveport problem. The abuse is happening across the state. 

Shreveport Mayor Arceneaux Supports the Measures

Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux told KEEL News on Wednesday morning he supports these legislative efforts.  "We very much appreciate those representatives pushing those bills forward."  Arceneaux continued, "As I recall, Representative Jackson's bill creates a felony charge and so that would be something that would be prosecuted by districts attorney but investigated by Shreveport police."

What It Doesn’t Do 

Jackson clarified that his bill does not extend liability to property managers or workers—another proposal reportedly circulating the Capitol that he believes may be overly broad and burdensome. He said he's focusing strictly on intentional utility fraud connected to rent collection. 

Why It Matters 

If the utility fraud bill passes, cities like Shreveport will finally have recourse against landlords who hide behind corporate paperwork while tenants suffer. And on the camera front, Jackson says the conversation is far from over.