Born in Lafayette and raised in St. Martinville, I am a Cajun in heart, mind and spirit. I dove into the news industry with my start at my hometown newspaper where I picked up some journalistic skills. I earned a degree in mass communications at UL Lafayette which prepared me for covering news in Acadiana and around the state. As a news reporter for KPEL, my news beats include, but are not limited to, Lafayette Consolidated Government and the Lafayette Parish School Board. Jumping from print media to broadcast has been an exciting move for me in the ever-changing multimedia environment of today's news world. When not covering news, I can often be found playing guitar or cooking at home, both usually being done with my daughter, Jolie, very near by.
Derek Albert
More Budget Cuts, Special Session Worries Ahead In Louisiana
The looming budge shortfall is expected to reach around $300 million.
Mother Arrested For Giving Birth, Abandoning Baby In Wal-Mart
Thomas' criminal rap sheet also includes charges of negligent homicide in connection with the death of another child.
Two Arrested For Murder Of Lafayette Pizza Delivery Man
Two Lafayette men have been arrested for the murder of a Papa John's pizza delivery driver Friday.
No Surprises Expected With Louisiana’s Electoral Votes
State officials expect a quick, straightforward set of votes Monday for Trump in Louisiana.
UL Lafayette Names Its Fall 2016 Outstanding Graduates
Eight students will be honored during Fall 2016 Commencement ceremonies as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Alumni Association’s Outstanding Graduates.
Louisiana Governor’s LGBT Rights Order Thrown Out By Judge
A district judge throws out Edwards' executive order, but the governor says he will take the ruling to higher courts for appeal.
Congress Oks More Than $1.25B For Louisiana Flood Recovery
A flood recovery task force created by Gov. John Bel Edwards will decide how the dollars are spent.
Drugs, Firearms Leads To Breaux Bridge Man’s Arrest
Thirty-four-year-old Brandon Scrantz was booked into the St. Martin Parish Jail after agents raided his home.
Marshal Brian Pope & His Former Attorney Indicted
Marshal Brian Pope faces and his former attorney, Charles Middleton, face indictments related to malfeasance in office and perjury charges.
State Motor Vehicles Department Will Reverse No Cash Policy
Department's of Motor Vehicles commissioner, Karen St. Germain, confirmed the move late Friday, citing pressure from lawmakers.
Bond Denied To Former Children’s Show Host
A state district judge has denied bond for a former Louisiana children's show host accused of child abuse.
Here’s Where You Can Find The BEST Black Friday Deals
Before you even reheat the leftover turkey, get in line at these Lafayette retailers for Black Friday sales.
Lafayette Teen Reported Missing
Fifteen-year-old Venus Archangel left home almost three weeks ago.
Missing Rayne Man Found Dead
Wendell Bertrand was last seen at his home around 7 a.m. Monday.
Reince Priebus Tapped As White House Chief Of Staff
The moves are Trump's first as he sets about putting together his administration.
Angelle, Higgins Face Off For 3rd Congressional District Seat
In the 3rd Congressional District, two Republicans--Scott Angelle and Clay Higgins--will face each other in a runoff on Dec. 10.
Update: Car Crashes Into Lafayette Daycare
Motorists should avoid the area to accommodate first responders.
Impaired Mother Crashes Vehicle With Four Children As Passengers
The children ages--8, 5, 3, and 1-- were taken to area hospitals after being rescued from the burning vehicle by a good Samaritan.
Lafayette Man Sentenced For Stealing $1.5 Million From His Disabled Sister
The defendant was appointed the curator for his sister's estate when she was unable to manage her own affairs following an auto accident.
UL Lafayette Hosts Tons Of Events For Homecoming Week
Homecoming Week (Oct. 31--Nov.5) activities and events include a traditional Homecoming Day parade, a pep rally, and a tailgating party.