Banks, USPS see check-washing surge

with Kelly P. Kissel | Metro editor

Here are some of our top headlines today.

Check, please

Banks and postal inspectors are seeing an increase in check thefts out of the mail system, and that the stolen documents are being "washed" and rewritten in a way to defraud people. Elyse Carmosino explores the phenomena in this story.

What's reason behind judge's gag order?

Lawyers for two men in a recent Baton Rouge homicide trial are seeking new proceedings for their clients and want a new judge, too. The lawyers say one of the jurors was present whn the crime occurred, and also say the judge met with jurors outside of the lawyers' presence and also let the jurors take unsupervised smoke breaks.

The judge has issued a gag order in the case, saying he is trying to protect all the jurors' identities. Joe Gyan writes that the defense lawyers are questioning whether the order is intended to halt questions about the judge's own actions.

Oil price bump

An economist says increasing demand for oil could push prices to above $100 a barrel. The jump could occur by this summer, but will likely be shortlived. The increase should boost Louisiana's economy for a bit, as Robert Stewart reports.

Thanks for reading, and have a great day!