An Independent running as the only challenger to Amite Representative Robby Carter is facing drug and child endangerment charges. Hammond Daily Star Reporter Jesse Brooks says 26-year-old Marylee Bellau was a surprise, last-minute entrant into the race, with an unconventional background for an aspiring politician.
“She had a criminal record, and she had worked as an exotic dancer at Candy’s (Men’s Club) in Pine Grove,” said Brooks.
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s office says Bellau, and her boyfriend, 49-year-old Joseph Hammons, were part of an ongoing narcotics investigation.
Brooks says Bellau’s entrance raised some red flags, and Clerk of Court workers recounted a disassociated Bellau entering the office to sign up last second. When questioned by the Daily Star she appeared to be checked out.
“She seemed not knowledgeable on general political subjects that are happening in the state,” said Brooks. “Just someone who didn’t really seem to have much interest in running a race at all.”
Brooks says further investigation revealed her candidate contact number was out of state, and when called whoever responded said Bellau “wasn’t in the office today.”
So, what could be behind this mystery candidate’s entry into the race? Brooks says he suspects an outside group was involved, but not for political reasons. Brooks says Carter certainly has one theory as to why Bellau was on the ballot.
“That some enemies of his family paid her to enter the race just to cause chaos and disruption, and make things interesting,” said Brooks.
