Rob Marionneaux Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit on Behalf of Fallen Iberville Deputy’s Family
PLAQUEMINE, La. — The widow of fallen Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Charles Riley has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Brett Stassi, and Capt. Brett Stassi Jr., alleging negligence contributed to the fatal courthouse shooting that claimed Riley’s life in October 2025.
The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Carlye Bezet-Riley by attorney Rob Marionneaux, who represents the Riley family in their pursuit of accountability and answers surrounding the tragic events that unfolded inside the Iberville Parish Courthouse.
Deputy Riley was killed during an attempt to arrest Latrell Clark, who was being questioned in connection with a sex crimes investigation. According to investigative reports and court filings, a struggle broke out inside an interrogation room when Clark was informed he was under arrest. During the altercation, Clark gained possession of Capt. Stassi Jr.’s service weapon and opened fire, fatally wounding Deputy Riley and seriously injuring Capt. Stassi Jr. Clark later died during the incident.
According to the lawsuit, Capt. Stassi Jr. failed to follow accepted law enforcement procedures by bringing a firearm into an occupied interrogation room and failing to maintain control of the weapon. The filing also alleges that unnecessary distractions were present during the interview and that adequate, experienced backup was not in place before Clark was informed he was under arrest.
“Everyone is answerable for their own actions and behaviors,” Marionneaux said while discussing the lawsuit. He argues that established law enforcement standards warn against bringing firearms into suspect interviews and that proper procedures exist to prevent incidents of this nature.
The lawsuit further claims that deficiencies in training, supervision, and departmental policies contributed to the circumstances that led to Deputy Riley’s death. Attorneys for the family contend that proper safeguards could have prevented the suspect from obtaining a firearm and turning it against law enforcement officers.
Marionneaux stated that the purpose of the lawsuit is not only to seek justice for Deputy Riley and his family but also to examine whether policy failures and operational decisions played a role in one of the most devastating law enforcement incidents in Iberville Parish history.
In response to the lawsuit, Sheriff Brett Stassi expressed continued gratitude for Deputy Riley’s service and sacrifice, stating that Riley’s courage and selflessness would never be forgotten. The sheriff also acknowledged the family’s right to pursue legal action through the court system.
The case is expected to proceed through Louisiana’s court system in the coming months.
Sources: Post South, WBRZ News, and WAFB-TV reporting on the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Deputy Charles Riley.