Inmate Search, Free Tax Help and Playoff Pairings Lead Baton Rouge Headlines
Baton Rouge, LA – March 20, 2026 – Authorities search for escaped inmate as free tax help opens and playoff pairings set the weekend agenda in Baton Rouge.
Baton Rouge is closing out the week with a mix of public safety alerts, community resources and high school sports excitement.
Inmate Search Underway
The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is actively searching for a prison inmate who reportedly left a supervised job site and did not return. Authorities say deputies began tracking the inmate soon after he was discovered missing and are asking the public to report any sightings.
Officials have not indicated that the inmate is considered armed, but they urge residents to remain alert and avoid contact. The search remains ongoing as law enforcement canvasses areas around Baton Rouge.
Free Tax Help Available
With tax season in full swing, free tax preparation assistance is now available for qualifying residents in Baton Rouge and surrounding communities. The service is aimed at helping low- to moderate-income households, seniors and first-time filers submit accurate returns before the federal deadline.
Organizers say IRS-certified volunteers are providing in-person help and answering common questions about credits, deductions and filing options. Appointments are encouraged as demand typically increases heading into late March and early April.
Prep Girls Basketball Playoff Pairings Set
High school girls basketball teams across the Baton Rouge area now know their postseason paths. The latest playoff brackets feature several local programs earning strong seeds and home-court opportunities.
Fans can expect a busy slate of games in the coming days, with district rivals and regional contenders facing off as teams compete for a chance to advance deeper into state competition.
Community Moment
In a heartwarming ceremony earlier this week, a young boy battling cancer was sworn in as an honorary member of the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office. Deputies and family members gathered to celebrate the moment, offering a reminder of the community spirit that often shines brightest during challenging times.
From public safety updates to playoff anticipation and tax season support, it’s been a full week across Baton Rouge.