Matt Bowers has publicly responded after his name and automotive businesses were included in a public records request that has now become the subject of a lawsuit involving candidate Daniel Seuzeneau for St. Tammany Parish Sheriff.
The controversy began when attorney Dominick Latino of Column Law Firm submitted an extensive public records request to the Slidell Police Department seeking approximately 20 years of Seuzeneau’s employment records.
The request includes personnel files, disciplinary history, outside employment, vehicle purchases, and communications involving Matt Bowers Auto Group and Southern Rogue Media.
According to Seuzeneau, Latino is pursuing legal action alleging the Slidell Police Department failed to respond to a public records request in a timely manner. However, Seuzeneau resigned from the department in July to run for sheriff and no longer holds a position with the agency. As a result, he has no authority over the department’s handling, processing, or release of public records.
Seuzeneau disputes that allegation, stating that the Slidell city attorney informed him the documents were already available through the city’s public records portal, pending payment of applicable fees.
Seuzeneau also questioned why he was named in the lawsuit after resigning from the department in July to pursue his campaign for sheriff.
Now, Matt Bowers is addressing the situation directly.
Responding to a Facebook comment questioning why his businesses were being brought into the controversy, Bowers explained that he first met Seuzeneau years ago following a theft of wheels and tires from his Slidell Chevrolet dealership.
Bowers praised Seuzeneau’s character, stating:
“I found Daniel to be a smart, talented person with high integrity. I value my friendship with Daniel tremendously. I’m proud to call him a friend.”
Bowers also directly addressed questions surrounding municipal vehicle purchases.
“None of my dealerships (in any State) participate in bids etc with ANY municipality.”
He added that while municipal fleet business is legitimate, it is not something he has pursued.
“There is just nothing there.”
Bowers concluded by stating that he tries his best to stay out of local politics.
Seuzeneau previously announced that he intends to publish the requested employment records on his campaign website, provided he is legally permitted to release them.
The dispute comes ahead of the November 3 sheriff’s election.
