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
Indiana Police Officer Ronnell Johnson Fatally Shot While Handling Personal Firearm at Marion Health Hospital
Authorities in Indiana are investigating the fatal shooting of a Marion Health Police Officer who died early Sunday morning after an accidental firearm discharge inside Marion Health Hospital in Grant County.
According to the Indiana State Police, the incident occurred at approximately 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025, when 25-year-old Officer Ronnell J. Johnson, of Marion, Indiana, was discovered with an apparent gunshot wound. Officer Johnson was on duty at the time of the incident.
Initial findings from the ongoing investigation indicate that Officer Johnson was handling a personally-owned, non-department-issued handgun when the firearm discharged, striking him.
Details surrounding how the weapon was being handled and the moments leading up to the injury have not yet been fully clarified.
Emergency personnel from multiple agencies—including the Indiana State Police, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Marion City Police Department, and Marion Health Police Department—responded immediately.
Hospital medical staff initiated life-saving measures; however, despite their efforts, Officer Johnson succumbed to his injuries.
He was later pronounced deceased by the Grant County Coroner’s Office.
Family notification has been completed, and an autopsy is scheduled as part of the ongoing investigation.
Officials emphasize that no additional details will be released until further evidence is reviewed.
Indiana State Police Detectives are leading the investigation at the request of the Marion City Police Department.
Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Indiana State Police Peru Post and medical personnel from Marion Health Hospital.
The circumstances remain under active review.