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.
Local News
Fatal Single-Vehicle Crash Claims Life of 25-Year-Old Trussville Resident
The crash occurred at approximately 6:13 a.m. in the 2500 block of Floyd Bradford Road.
Authorities are investigating a tragic single-vehicle crash that resulted in the death of a 25-year-old man in Trussville early Tuesday morning.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim as Noah Lauren White, a resident of Trussville.
The crash occurred at approximately 6:13 a.m. in the 2500 block of Floyd Bradford Road.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene, but despite their efforts, White was pronounced deceased at 6:30 a.m.
Preliminary reports indicate that White was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the accident. The specific circumstances leading to the crash, including potential contributing factors such as road conditions, vehicle issues, or driver-related factors, remain under investigation.
The Trussville Police Department, in conjunction with other local authorities, is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
This tragic loss has deeply affected the Trussville community. Friends and family are remembering White for his life and the impact he had on those around him.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has additional information to contact local law enforcement to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Further updates will be provided as more details become available.