Search for suspect in narcotics investigation continues; water search suspended

Though detectives are still trying to apprehend a 36-year-old Calumet man wanted on drug charges and for fleeing from detectives into Bayou Boeuf, the search of the bayou and surrounding waterways has been suspended, according to a St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office news release.
Detectives developed information indicating that suspect James Guerin Jr., 36, of Calumet swam to safety and is actively evading apprehension, the release said. In light of that information and after an extensive and thorough search of the waterway utilizing the Marine Division’s boats, radar, and dive team, operations on the water were suspended as of this afternoon, the release stated.
A warrant for Guerin’s arrest has been issued on the charges of distribution of Schedule II methamphetamine, possession of Schedule I marijuana fourth offense aggravated flight from an officer, hit and run driving and resisting an officer, according to a sheriff's office news release.
Earlier today, narcotics division detectives received information of illegal drug activity at Guerin's residence, the release stated.
Detectives obtained a search warrant for the residence and later located Guerin driving in the Morgan City area. Detectives initiated a stop in reference to the ongoing narcotics investigation. Guerin refused to pull over, accelerating away from detectives, the news release said.
Detectives followed Guerin into Amelia. Guerin drove down Hebert Lane toward Bayou Boeuf where he struck a parked vehicle and crashed into a row of industrial sand bags, according to the news release.
Guerin then exited the vehicle and fled into the bayou. Guerin refused detectives’ repeated requests to come out of the water, the release stated. A detective located a pirogue nearby on the bank and attempted to retrieve Guerin from the water. The detective’s efforts were unsuccessful, the release said.
The Marine Division Dive Team was also deployed in the search for Guerin, the release stated. With the assistance of the U.S. Coast Guard, the Bayou Boeuf waterway was periodically closed as the divers worked.
Anyone with information on Guerin's whereabouts should contact the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office or their local law enforcement authorities. The St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office can be reached at 985-384-1622 or 337-828-1960.