Labadieville man accused of assaulting 16-year-old

Berwick police say they're arrested a Labadieville man in the 2021 rape of a 16-year-old.

Michael A. Tilford, 26, Fir Street, Labadieville was arrested 10:34 a.m. Tuesday on charges of second-degree rape and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles.

On June 6, Berwick detectives began an investigation into the rape of a 16-year-old juvenile that reportedly occurred in Berwick in November 2021, in which Tilford was identified as the suspect. Throughout the course of the investigation, detectives uncovered evidence that supported the victim’s alleged claims, as well as additional evidence that linked Tilford to the crime, the Police Department said.

Arrest warrants were secured for Tilford’s arrest, and on Tuesday, he was taken into custody. During an interview, Tilford admitted to his involvement in the crime, the Police Department said.

Tilford was processed on the warrants at the Berwick Police Department then transferred to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for incarceration.