LDWF Secretary Resigns Amidst Alleged Startling Bribery Scandal
In December of 2016, Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards announced that Jack Montoucet would take over the reins of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries in January 2017.
In his announcement of Montoucet's appointment, Governor Edwards had this to say of his selection:
“Jack Montoucet is a friend and a true Louisianan,” said Gov. Edwards. “As a businessman, he understands the complex nature of running an organization such as Wildlife and Fisheries, and as an alligator farmer in Acadiana, he shares my belief that nothing should get in the way of Louisiana remaining the Sportsman’s Paradise. This single agency represents so much about our culture, and I am excited to have Jack lead it into the future.”
Just over six years later, we have learned that Montoucet is alleged to have been part of a bribery scandal and on Friday, April 14, it was announced that he had submitted his resignation from the position.
In an article from the Louisiana Radio Network, we are given more insight into the alleged scandalous involvement. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Jack Montoucet has submitted his resignation as it has become public he’s involved in a bribery scandal. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says this is not a good look for the Edwards administration.
“You are looking at a public relations disaster for the administration, when a high ranking official resigns and obviously has serious problems with the FBI related to bribery,” said Pinsonat.
Federal documents show Montoucet’s signature is on a contract tied to a kickback scheme that has resulted in the conviction of Dusty Guidry of Youngsville on three federal charges.
Records from the U-S Attorney’s office indicates Montoucet signed a contract for a program set up by Guidry, that would result in an LDWF official receiving an ATV worth $14,000 dollars upon retirement. The Advocate newspaper reports Montoucet is the only LDWF official to sign the contract.
The article also specifically mentions that Montoucet has not been formally charged with any crime and has yet to make any comment on the allegations, but has indeed resigned from the LDWF Secretary position.