Local News
Former Employee Alleges Wage Theft and Sudden Closure at Holistic Behavioral Health Services in Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, LA – Samantha Wheat, a former employee of Holistic Behavioral Health Services of Louisiana LLC, also known as Holistic Haven, has reached out to Channel 2 NOW News with allegations of wage theft and unethical business practices by the facility’s management.
According to Wheat, the residential pediatric psychiatric facility, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was under state investigation for non-compliance in early 2024.
The situation reportedly escalated when, on March 13, 2024, the facility abruptly closed its doors without prior notice, leaving over 20 employees unpaid for their work.
Allegations Against Management
Wheat alleges that the CEO, Tommie Dyer, and his wife, Felicia Nixon Dyer, who also run outpatient behavioral health services in Baton Rouge, ceased communication with employees following the facility’s closure.
Despite repeated attempts by former staff to recover their unpaid wages, Wheat claims the Dyers have ignored multiple certified demand letters and have shown no intention of resolving the matter.
“I am personally owed nearly $5,000, and I know many nurses, technicians, and other staff members are in similar situations,” Wheat stated. “The financial strain from not being paid almost cost me my house, my car, and my overall well-being.”
Employees Struggle with Limited Options
Wheat reported that she, along with other former employees, contacted the New Orleans Labor Board for assistance but received no meaningful help.
Many affected individuals are reportedly unable to afford legal representation to pursue claims against the Dyers.
“This isn’t the first time these business owners have been accused of not paying their employees,” Wheat said, alleging a pattern of similar behavior by the couple.
Ongoing Operations Despite Allegations
Despite the controversy surrounding the closure of Holistic Haven, the Dyers allegedly continue to operate their outpatient business in Baton Rouge.
Wheat and other former employees are now urging the public to hold the Dyers accountable for their actions.
A Plea for Justice
“I hope this message reaches Tommie and Felicia Dyer, as well as news outlets, to shine a light on their actions. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the devastation they’ve caused to people’s lives,” Wheat emphasized.
Wheat encourages others to share her story and bring attention to the issue, expressing hope that increased public awareness will lead to justice for the unpaid employees.
For further information or to provide tips, Channel 2 NOW News urges anyone with details related to this case to reach out to their newsroom.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.