Louisiana Woman Arrested After Skinny-Dipping Incident Turns Violent
FARMERVILLE, La. — A Louisiana woman’s late-night swim in a neighbor’s pond escalated into a violent confrontation with law enforcement, authorities reported. Erin Elizabeth Sutton, 41, was found nude swimming in a pond on private property in the Linville community of Marion after a trespassing complaint prompted deputies to respond in November. When deputies arrived, Sutton refused to leave the pond, telling officers she was “trying to be a mermaid,” according to the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office Facebook post.
Despite repeated commands, Sutton initially resisted exiting the water. Emergency medical services were called due to the cold temperatures, and a blanket was provided to her. However, when deputies attempted to escort her inside to warm up, Sutton allegedly charged at a deputy, ignoring multiple orders to comply. A taser deployment failed to subdue her, and officers had to physically restrain her as she continued to resist by kicking and punching.
During transport to a hospital for medical evaluation, Sutton reportedly threatened to kill deputies and paramedics, further escalating the situation. The sheriff’s office later obtained arrest warrants from Louisiana’s Third Judicial District Court for multiple charges, including resisting an officer with force or violence, battery of a police officer, public intimidation, and disturbing the peace.
On January 6, 2026, Sutton surrendered to authorities and was taken into custody. The incident has drawn attention to the challenges law enforcement faces when responding to unusual and unpredictable situations. The Louisiana State Police and local agencies continue to emphasize the importance of public safety and cooperation with officers.
Incidents involving resistance to arrest and assault on law enforcement officers are taken seriously nationwide. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, assaults on police officers occur frequently during arrests and can result in significant injuries to both officers and suspects. The Union Parish Sheriff’s Office is cooperating with state authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.
While Sutton’s claim of “trying to be a mermaid” may sound unusual, law enforcement officials remind the public that trespassing and assault charges carry serious consequences. The sheriff’s office encourages residents to report suspicious activity promptly and to avoid confrontations that could escalate.
For more information on law enforcement protocols and public safety, visit the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s page on assaults against officers and the Office of Justice Programs.
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