Abbeville , LA – An Abbeville man is behind bars after authorities discovered a stash of firearms, ammunition, and body armor during his arrest for domestic battery. Taylor Bares, 29, was taken into custody on Monday, facing multiple charges following a Sunday investigation into an alleged incident involving domestic violence.
According to Sheriff Eddie Langlinais, the investigation began around 1 a.m. on Sunday when deputies responded to a complaint of battery involving a dating partner, with reports indicating strangulation. Deputies quickly obtained an arrest warrant for Bares. By Monday afternoon, they located and arrested him at his residence without incident.
However, the arrest uncovered much more than expected. Deputies found several firearms in Bares’ possession, violating his legal restrictions. As a convicted felon with a prior conviction for domestic abuse battery, Bares was not legally allowed to possess any firearms. Additionally, he had an active protective order in place, further complicating the situation.
Upon securing a search warrant for Bares’ home and vehicle, deputies uncovered a significant amount of weaponry and tactical gear. The items seized included 12 long guns, an AR pistol, a revolver, a semi-automatic pistol, and hundreds, possibly thousands, of rounds of various ammunition. Also found were body armor labeled “Secret Service” and a law enforcement-style duty belt, raising further concerns regarding the nature of his illegal possessions.
Bares now faces multiple serious charges, including 15 counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, 15 counts of possession of a firearm by someone convicted of domestic abuse battery, illegal possession of body armor by a convicted felon, and 15 counts of violating a protective order.
Sheriff Langlinais emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are seeking public assistance in gathering more information. Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to report them anonymously through Crime Stoppers by visiting the Vermilion Sheriff’s website, calling the tip line at (337) 740-TIPS, or using the P3 App. Tips may lead to a cash reward.
This case highlights the dangerous intersection of domestic violence, firearms, and protective orders, underscoring the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community involvement in keeping the public safe.