Christopher Paul Faces Charges Involving Two 13-Year-Old Girls but Could Become Louisiana Police Chief Unopposed

 

Louisiana Police Chief Candidate Faces Child Rape Charges and Could Still Win the Election Unopposed

Christopher “Chris” Paul, 48, a candidate for police chief in Elizabeth, Louisiana, was arrested on September 8, 2026, after being charged with two counts of second-degree rape.

According to the Allen Parish Sheriff's Office, the charges stem from allegations that Paul raped two 13-year-old girls between 2005 and 2006.

He was released on $60,000 bond.

And despite the seriousness of those allegations, Paul could still become the town's next police chief.

His only opponent, Zachary LaCaze, withdrew from the race in late September after his federal employment was found to conflict with restrictions under the Hatch Act.

That left Paul running unopposed.

Under Louisiana law, Paul remains eligible to hold public office because he has not been convicted of a felony.

Local officials are now trying to change how the position is filled.

The village board approved a December 12, 2026, referendum asking voters whether the police chief should be appointed rather than elected.

But there's a problem.

The referendum comes after the November election, and Paul's term is scheduled to begin January 1, 2027.

Even if voters approve the change, it may not prevent him from taking office.

Community advocates have called on Paul to withdraw. He has declined.

Paul has not been convicted, and the charges against him remain allegations. He is entitled to the presumption of innocence.

But the situation raises a serious question about public trust.

A police chief is supposed to protect the community, including its children. When someone facing charges involving the alleged rape of two 13-year-old girls is poised to take that position without an opponent, the public deserves more than a technical explanation of why it's legally allowed.

Legal eligibility and public trust are two very different fucking things.