by Slidell, LA – A heroic gesture by a Louisiana mother of three caught the attention of her community and law enforcement after she lent a police officer her car to aid in a chase involving suspected shoplifters. The incident, which occurred over the weekend at a Dillards store in Slidell, highlights the spirit of cooperation between citizens and police to keep the community safe.
The Slidell Police Department recognized Lesli Smith for her quick thinking and generosity when she offered her vehicle to Sgt. Jeff Kahrs during a high-speed pursuit, an act that helped officers apprehend two suspects involved in multiple criminal charges.
The Unexpected Partnership in a Shoplifting Chase
The chase began on Saturday, November 1, 2025, when Sgt. Kahrs responded to a shoplifting alert at Dillards. Kelsey Baird, 34, from Navarre, Florida, was caught attempting to leave the store after discarding stolen items. As Sgt. Kahrs moved to detain her, she fled to a waiting car driven by her boyfriend, Eric Boudreaux, 43, from Biloxi, Mississippi.
Bodycam footage shows Kahrs pursuing Baird until she sped off in the car. At that moment, Smith approached the officer and asked, “Want to hop in?” Demonstrating community spirit, Kahrs accepted, and Smith drove through the parking lot, aiding in the pursuit until backup arrived to arrest the suspects.
- Both Baird and Boudreaux faced charges of theft and resisting an officer by flight.
- Baird was also charged with meth possession.
- The incident was swiftly handled, thanks to Smith’s intervention.
Community and Police Praise for the Good Samaritan
Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau expressed gratitude for Smith’s timely assistance.
“To the good Samaritan, who I spoke with this morning, people like you are the reason why Slidell is a great place to live and work. Without hesitation, you assisted one of our officers… expecting nothing in return,”
the chief said.
Smith received the prestigious Slidell Citizenship Award during a ceremony attended by police officials and Mayor Randy Fandal on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
Lesli Smith reflected on her involvement. “All I was thinking at the time was, ‘How could I help?’” She also praised the police department’s professionalism and response to the shoplifting incident, emphasizing how proud she was of their dedication.
After dropping Sgt. Kahrs off to continue the arrest, Smith humorously recounted making a U-turn and returning to shop at TJ Maxx, underscoring the unexpected normalcy that followed her extraordinary involvement.
Law Enforcement’s Message to Would-Be Criminals
Chief Seuzeneau issued a stern warning to potential thieves targeting Slidell businesses:
“We will do whatever it takes to catch you and fully prosecute you. Stay out of our city.”
This incident underscores the community’s commitment to safety and justice backed by citizen support and vigilant policing.
For further details on the story, visit Fox News.
What Can We Learn From This Community Hero?
- Rapid citizen engagement can make a critical difference in law enforcement efforts.
- Building strong ties between police and residents helps foster safer neighborhoods.
- Acts of kindness and courage inspire others to support public safety initiatives.
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