RAPIDES PARISH, La. — The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) has arrested Ladonna Delrie, 53, of Pollock, in connection with the hit-and-run that killed former Rapides Parish Sheriff William Earl Hilton on March 23.
Delrie faces charges of first-degree murder, flight from an officer, criminal damage to property, and simple burglary. Her bond was set at $5,300,000. Contrary to online rumors, RPSO confirmed she has not bonded out. Due to the severity of the crime and Hilton’s association with RPSO, Delrie has been transferred to an undisclosed facility.
According to RPSO, Hilton returned home in the Hineston area around 1 p.m. on March 23 and encountered Delrie exiting his residence. When he attempted contact, she ran him over, leaving him with life-threatening injuries. Hilton was airlifted to a hospital but later died from his injuries.
After the incident, Delrie’s vehicle was spotted speeding on LA 28 at Leavines Road. Officers attempted a traffic stop, but she refused, leading to a high-speed chase exceeding 100 mph. Spike strips were deployed, and she was apprehended at LA 28 and Cloverleaf Boulevard without further incident.
Delrie previously faced theft charges in January 2023, later pleading guilty to criminal mischief in October 2023.
RPSO confirmed the investigation is ongoing. Hilton’s body was escorted from Rapides Regional to Lafayette for autopsy and later to Hixson Brothers Funeral Home in Alexandria. Memorial service details will be provided once finalized.
