On Tuesday, July 8, 2014, the St. James Parish sheriff’s office advised John D. Celestine has been charged with the first degree murder of Talaija Dorsey. Talaija Dorsey was reported missing by her mother on July 1st, 2014. An extensive search and rescue operation immediately began that resulted in the recovery of her body on July 6th, 2014. Since the date of her disappearance, detectives developed evidence and leads that pointed in the direction of foul play being involved in Talaija’s disappearance. Evidence regarding the murder of Talaija was presented by the 23rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office to a grand jury on July 8st, 2014. The grand jury returned an indictment on John D. Celestine for the charge of first degree murder. John D. Celestine in currently incarcerated at the St. James Parish Jail with no bond for the charge of LA R.S. 14:30 First Degree Murder. The investigation regarding the murder of Talaija Dorsey in still ongoing. Any persons having information regarding this case should contact the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office at 225-562-2200. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-855-TIPS-247, texting “Tip SJPSOÌ¢âÂå to 888777 or through our website, www.stjamessheriff.com.
Released by: Sheriff Willy Martin, Jr.