Ackal announces re-election bid

Iberia Parish Sheriff Louis Ackal announced his re-election campaign in his office Friday afternoon.

Sitting from his desk, Ackal, now in the final year of his second term, detailed how when he was first elected in 2008, he inherited an office in “dire financial shape” with an aged vehicle fleet and all-around antiquated equipment and facilities.

He has since been able to bring his office forward, he said, although at great expense.

“I’m happy to tell you that as of December this last year, we have paid off all of our debts,” he said. “It was a burden to rebuild it over all these years, but we have rebuilt this office.”

At the helm, Ackal said he has overseen upgraded vehicles and equipment, the implementation of certified crime scene technicians on staff, increased training for deputies parishwide and a recertified jail.

The gun range also has been opened to the public and Boy Scouts are able to use the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office Island Outpost for activities. His office holds jurisdiction over New Iberia, Loreauville and rural Iberia Parish.

In rebuilding his office, Ackal, who has 47 years of law enforcement experience, pointed out he has also had several deputies arrested for crimes committed in their capacity in law enforcement.

“I don’t know of any other sheriffs that have turned in 12 of their own deputies,” he said.

Election for the next four-year term for sheriff is Oct. 24.