NEWS RELEASE
August 20, 2021
Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman stated that his office assisted in a joint investigation
involving the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Watercraft, The
Ohio State Fire Marshalls Office, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Franklin County Sheriff’s
Office Bomb Squad, and the Portsmouth Fire Department.
Sheriff David Thoroughman stated that on August 19, 2021, sheriff detectives responded along
with the other agencies to execute a search warrant at 5603 5th St., Sciotoville, Ohio. The search
warrant arose from an ongoing investigation from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources
involving thefts and arsons.
During the course of the investigation information was obtained that a 10-year-old child had
been staying at this house with his mother, who does not have custody. This child is back safe
with his father in Michigan.
Sheriff David Thoroughman stated that detectives were able to determine that the child was
exposed to drugs, explosive devices, and horrible living conditions that could have caused
serious physical harm or death.
This is an ongoing investigation that will result in more charges being presented to the Scioto
County Grand Jury to include several counts of Aggravated Arson, a felony of the 1st degree,
Possession of a Dangerous Ordnance, a felony of the 2nd degree, Possession of Drugs, Trafficking in Drugs, and Having Weapons under Disability.
Arrested was Louira Byrd, age 40, of 5603 5th St, Sciotoville. Byrd has been charged with 1
count of Child Endangerment, a felony of the 3 rd degree. Also arrested was Blue Byrd, age 39,
residing at the same address, charged with 1 count of Child Endangerment, a felony of the 3 rd
degree. Both are currently being held in the Scioto County Jail on a $100,00.00 bond.
Anyone with information should contact the Scioto County Sheriff’s Office at 740-354-7566. All
calls will remain anonymous.