A Pattern of Retaliation and Selective Enforcement

In Denham Springs, Louisiana, residents of Shelly's Homesites Subdivision have raised serious concerns about unequal enforcement of city ordinances and alleged retaliation by Stephen Davidson, a Certified Building Official registered with the State of Louisiana, operating under the management of Building Department Director Rick Foster.

Multiple residents report that Davidson has:

• Ignored legitimate complaints (overgrown grass, dead trees, obstructed drainage, vehicles in servitude) when filed by certain individuals.
• Retaliated against complainants by issuing citations to them for similar or identical violations.
• Violated the Denham Springs Code of Ordinances, which requires impartial enforcement, written notice, and documented evidence before citations.

This conduct may constitute malfeasance in office under Louisiana R.S. § 14:134, which prohibits public officials from:

• Intentionally refusing to perform legal duties.
• Knowingly allowing unlawful actions by subordinates.
• Using their position to harm or retaliate against citizens.

Why This Matters

This is not just about property maintenance, it's about government accountability and constitutional rights. When officials punish residents for reporting violations, it:

• Undermines trust in local government.
• Creates a chilling effect, discouraging others from speaking up.
• Violates due process and equal protection under the law.

Evidence of Misconduct

Residents have documented:

• Complaints ignored while complainants themselves were cited.
• Inconsistent enforcement, with some properties allowed violations while others face strict penalties.
• No corrective action from city leadership despite repeated concerns.

What We Demand

We, the residents of Shelly's Homesites, call for:

1. Impartial enforcement of city ordinances, no retaliation for lawful complaints.
2. An independent investigation into the conduct of building department inspectors. and city enforcement practices.
3. Transparency from elected officials, who have remained silent despite evidence of wrongdoing.
4. Respect for constitutional rights, including the right to petition government without fear of reprisal.

Join Us in Demanding Accountability

If you have experienced retaliation, selective enforcement, or misconduct by Denham Springs officials, we urge you to:

• Share your story (anonymously, if needed).
• File formal complaints with the city and state ethics boards.
• Attend city council meetings and demand answers.

Silence enables abuse. Together, we can restore fairness and accountability.

Signed,
Concerned Residents of Shelly's Homesites Subdivision
Denham Springs, Louisiana