Slidell Police Arrest Man Who Allegedly Solicits Juveniles

Slidell, LA (BuzzReport)– A Slidell man is behind bars after a rapid response by the Slidell Police Department led to his arrest following an alleged sexual solicitation of juveniles in a local shopping center parking lot. The incident highlights the crucial role of alert citizens and efficient law enforcement in ensuring community safety.

The alarming encounter unfolded shortly before 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025. Slidell Police officers were dispatched to the parking lot of Big Lots in Slidell, responding to a report of a suspicious male who had approached a group of juveniles. According to initial reports, the man drove up to the group and made an explicit sexual proposition to one of the minors. The quick-thinking juveniles immediately rejected the advance, and the man promptly drove away.

Thanks to the commendable presence of mind displayed by the juveniles, who were able to provide police with a detailed description of the vehicle and its license plate number, officers were able to swiftly identify and locate the suspected individual. Within a short timeframe, Slidell Police successfully made contact with 67-year-old Rene Hocke of Slidell at his residence.

Following questioning by law enforcement, Hocke reportedly confessed to the allegations. He was subsequently arrested and charged with Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile, a violation of Louisiana Revised Statute 14:81, emphasizing the serious nature of the offense.

Chief Randy Fandal of the Slidell Police Department lauded both the quick actions of the juveniles and the efficiency of his officers in bringing about a swift resolution. “I’m extremely proud of these kids for recognizing something wasn’t right and immediately speaking up,” Chief Fandal stated. “Their courage and quick action helped us take this individual off the streets and possibly prevented him from preying on someone else.”