St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith Officially Resigns

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith has officially resigned.

In a resignation letter dated June 24, 2026, Smith announced his retirement effective at 1:00 p.m. that day, ending a 40-year law enforcement career.

The resignation comes following his plea agreement in connection with the Northshore restaurant altercation that sparked weeks of controversy and calls for his resignation.

According to the letter, Chief Deputy Bret Ibert will serve as Interim Sheriff until a new sheriff is elected.

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This marks one of the most significant leadership transitions in the history of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Update (Oct. 1, 2026): According to WWL-TV, Smith pleaded guilty to second-degree battery, a felony, and one misdemeanor count of disturbing the peace in connection with a May 29 incident at a Madisonville restaurant. The district attorney said the felony count could be reduced to a misdemeanor if he completes the required program and probation conditions. The election to fill the rest of the term is Nov. 3, with a runoff, if needed, on Dec. 12, and interim Sheriff Bret Ibert is not running, according to WWL-TV’s candidate list.