Day 14 in Search for Missing Teen: Police Activity Expands as Investigation Turns Toward Landfill Locations

DAY 14 UPDATE: Search for Missing Baton Rouge Teen Intensifies as Police Activity Expands and Crews Move to Landfill

Two Weeks Have Passed Since Ja’Derrius Minnieweather Vanished

The desperate search for 15-year-old Ja’Derrius Minnieweather entered its second week on Friday, with no sign of the Baton Rouge teenager who was last seen on June 5 near Bradley Street in the Foster-Winbourne area.

As family members continue to plead for answers, law enforcement and volunteers remain committed to bringing the missing teen home.

Heavy Police Presence Spotted Near Winbourne Avenue

Friday afternoon, multiple Baton Rouge Police units gathered near the intersection of Winbourne Avenue and Conrad Drive, where officers were seen closely examining areas and collecting evidence with swabs.

The activity occurred just days after Mayor-President Sid Edwards, Police Chief TJ Morse and other officials held a press conference urging anyone with information to come forward.

Authorities have not disclosed what prompted the increased police presence.

Search Teams Later Moved to North Landfill

After regrouping, police units and search teams headed to the North Landfill in Zachary as the investigation expanded.

Officials and volunteers searched numerous locations throughout the day, but no trace of Ja’Derrius was found.

Search operations are expected to continue throughout the weekend.

United Cajun Navy Continues Supporting Family

The United Cajun Navy has remained heavily involved in the search effort, deploying drones and other resources to assist investigators and support the Minnieweather family.

Community members have joined volunteers during multiple searches over the past week, covering wooded areas and other locations throughout Baton Rouge.

Despite the exhaustive efforts, the teenager remains missing.

Separate Investigation Led to Local Man’s Arrest

Officials confirmed that investigators were led to Maurice Parms, 50, who lives on Webb Street, during the course of the investigation.

Parms was arrested on charges of indecent behavior with a juvenile and computer-aided solicitation of a minor. He later posted a $7,500 bond.

Police have not officially stated whether Parms was ever considered a person of interest in Ja’Derrius’ disappearance.

Reward Remains Available

Authorities continue to urge the public to come forward with any information that could help locate Ja’Derrius Minnieweather.

A reward remains available for information regarding his whereabouts, and investigators stress that even the smallest tip could prove crucial.

As another weekend of searching begins, family members and volunteers say they are refusing to give up hope.