A 48-year-old man indicted on two counts of second-degree rape involving two 13-year-old girls is on course to assume office as the chief of police in the village of Elizabeth, Louisiana, after being left unopposed on the ballot.
Christopher Paul was arrested in September 2026 following a criminal investigation into allegations that he sexually assaulted two young girls approximately 20 years ago.
Despite the pending felony indictment, Paul became the sole surviving contender for the post after his opponent withdrew from the ballot. The opposing candidate, who works in the federal civil service, stepped down after being notified that seeking municipal political office was a violation of the Hatch Act.
Under Louisiana statutory provisions, local officials possess no legal mechanism to alter ballot entries or introduce replacement candidates after the formal qualification deadline has passed. While state law bars convicted felons from serving in elected office, an indictment or pending criminal charge does not legally disqualify a candidate who maintains the constitutional presumption of innocence.
Mayor Mandy Green acknowledged community concern, confirming that local leadership had requested that Paul voluntarily withdraw from the election while his criminal case proceeds through the courts. To address the situation structurally, the village Board of Aldermen approved a special ordinance to place a referendum before voters in December to consider transforming the police chief position into an appointed role rather than an elected office.
Under legal reporting standards and strict statutory protections regarding child victims, complainants connected to allegations of sexual offences are protected by lifelong anonymity. Publishing, broadcasting, or disseminating any details, names, addresses, educational facilities, or photographs capable of leading to public identification is strictly prohibited.
Case summary:
Defendant: Christopher Paul, 48
Location: Elizabeth, Allen Parish, Louisiana
Charges: Two counts of second-degree rape
Political context: Running unopposed for Chief of Police following opponent’s withdrawal
Current status: On bail awaiting trial proceedings; eligible under state law to take office on 1 January absent a felony conviction
Image – Anonymous Artist Impression
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