> At a Glance
> – Erin Elizabeth Sutton, 41, was arrested Jan. 6 after a Nov. 2025 incident
> – Found swimming nude in neighbor’s pond, claiming she was “trying to be a mermaid”
> – Allegedly threatened to kill deputies and paramedics during transport
> – Why it matters: Rare case of trespassing escalating into multiple felony charges against law enforcement
A Louisiana woman who told deputies she was “trying to be a mermaid” now faces nine criminal counts after an alleged naked trespass turned violent.
The Pond Incident
Union Parish deputies responded to a trespassing complaint in the Linville community last November. The homeowner said Sutton was screaming in the driveway despite prior warnings to stay off the property.
Officers arrived to find Sutton swimming nude in the caller’s pond. She refused to exit, insisting she was “trying to be a mermaid.” After repeated commands, she finally left the water.
Escalation and Arrest
EMS gave Sutton a blanket and brought her inside to warm up. Without warning, she charged at a deputy, ignoring orders to stop. A taser had no effect, and Sutton allegedly punched and kicked while being restrained.
Sheriff’s Office Statement:
> “During transport, Sutton threatened to kill deputies and paramedics.”
Because she required medical care, deputies delayed seeking arrest warrants until she recovered.
| Charge Count | Allegations |
|---|---|
| 3 | Resisting an officer |
| 2 | Public intimidation |
| 2 | Battery on a police officer |
| 1 | Disturbing the peace |
| 1 | Criminal trespassing |
Sutton surrendered herself to the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office on January 6.
Key Takeaways
- Trespassing call morphed into multi-charge felony case
- Use-of-force review likely after taser failure
- Deputies waited two months to secure warrants, underscoring protocol for medical priority
The sheriff’s office has not released Sutton’s bond status or next court date.
