Crime
Brandon Whitsett Recovering After Injuries in New Orleans Bourbon Street Terror Attack
New Orleans, LA – Brandon Whitsett from Mobile, Alabama, is facing a long and challenging recovery after being seriously injured in the New Year’s Day terror attack on Bourbon Street.
According to a GoFundMe campaign organized by his cousin, Montrez Whitsett, Brandon suffered severe injuries when a truck plowed into a crowd during the horrific incident.
He was grazed by a bullet, struck by the vehicle, and trampled as chaos erupted. The attack left Brandon with multiple fractures, including injuries to his back, shoulder, and leg, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
The devastating event has rendered Brandon unable to work, while medical expenses and rehabilitation costs continue to rise.
His cousin Montrez is appealing for financial assistance to help cover the costs of his recovery and provide stability during this difficult period.
“Brandon has always been a kind, cheerful, and loving person,” Montrez shared. “Now it’s our turn to show him the kindness and generosity he deserves. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a difference in helping Brandon get back on his feet.”
The GoFundMe campaign aims to alleviate the financial burden on Brandon and his family, allowing him to focus on healing and rebuilding his life. Montrez is asking for support through donations and by sharing the campaign with friends and family to spread the word.
The New Orleans terror attack claimed the lives of 14 people and left several others, like Brandon, with life-altering injuries. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local and national community.
To donate and support Brandon’s recovery, please visit his GoFundMe page. Any contribution is greatly appreciated.
The Whitsett family thanks everyone for their kindness and support during this incredibly challenging time.
Crime
Former Texas Worship Minister and Christian Musician Jon Sheptock Arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material Charges
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas — A married Christian musician and former worship minister who once performed at a rally for former President Donald Trump has been arrested on multiple child sexual abuse material (CSAM) charges, authorities confirmed.
According to officials, Jon Sheptock, a former minister at First Montgomery Baptist Church, was taken into custody on September 26 by detectives from the Montgomery County Constable’s Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Unit.
He faces charges of possession and production of child pornography following a detailed investigation into allegations of long-term misconduct.
The arrest was based on testimony from a woman who alleged that Sheptock stole a photograph of her approximately nine years ago, when she was 17 years old.
The victim told investigators that after sending her the image, Sheptock demanded explicit photographs and later sent her a video depicting a violent assault, warning that he “did not want that to happen to her.”
Court records further indicate that Sheptock showed the victim nude images of both adults and minors on his computer.
Investigators allege that the misconduct continued as recently as October 2023, when Sheptock reportedly sent a text message to the victim containing a nude image of young girls.
Before his arrest, Sheptock was widely known as a Christian recording artist and motivational speaker.
His now-deleted website biography stated that he was born without arms and with one leg shorter than the other, yet went on to describe himself as a “thriving Christian recording artist and speaker.” He has been married for 26 years and is the father of three daughters.
In a public statement, First Montgomery Baptist Church confirmed that Sheptock was immediately removed from all ministry responsibilities following his arrest.
The church emphasized that Sheptock did not hold any position involving direct contact with children, and there is no indication that minors associated with the church were involved or affected.
Sheptock gained wider public attention in January 2022, when he performed the national anthem at a rally for then-President Donald Trump, according to The Independent.
If convicted, Sheptock faces a potential prison sentence ranging from two to twenty years.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are encouraging anyone with additional information to contact the Montgomery County Constable’s Office Human Traffic.