Houma Couple Arrested in SVU Investigation Involving Vulnerable Victim

April 7, 2026

Terrebonne Parish Sheriff Tim Soignet has announced the arrest of a Houma couple in connection with an ongoing investigation conducted by the agency’s Special Victim’s Unit (SVU).  John Schnieder Rodrigue, 41, and Samantha Margie Verdin, 43, were arrested on charges in connection with the investigation.

On March 31, 2026, Deputies assigned to the Patrol Division responded to a Houma-based care facility serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, after receiving a report of alleged sexual abuse involving a resident.

During the initial response, Deputies were provided information indicating that the victim had been subjected to sexual activity involving an adult male known to the victim, who was identified as John Schnieder Rodrigue.  Deputies made contact with the victim, who disclosed details consistent with the allegations, and confirmed the identity of the suspect.

Due to the nature of the case, SVU Detectives assumed the investigation and conducted a comprehensive forensic interview.  Through investigative efforts, Detectives developed evidence confirming that sexual activity did occur with Rodrigue.  Further investigation, including the review of digital evidence, revealed that a second individual, identified as Samantha Margie Verdin, had knowledge of and involvement in the incident.

Detectives also consulted with medical professionals familiar with the victim, who confirmed that the victim suffers from a diagnosed mental disability. Due to this condition, the victim is considered incapable of providing legal consent.

As a result of the investigation, John Schnieder Rodrigue, 41, was arrested on charges of Third-Degree Rape, and booked into the Terrebonne Parish Criminal Justice Complex, where he remains in custody on a $250,000.00 bond set by local judges.

Samantha Margie Verdin, 43, was arrested on charges of Principal to Third-Degree Rape, and booked into the Terrebonne Parish Criminal Justice Complex, where she remains in custody on a $150,000.00 bond set by local judges.

“Cases involving vulnerable victims are among the most serious and disturbing that our investigators encounter”, said Sheriff Soignet.  “We remain committed to protecting those who cannot protect themselves and will pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law. I commend our Deputies and SVU Detectives for their diligence and compassion throughout this investigation.”

This investigation remains ongoing. No further details will be released at this time to protect the integrity of the case and the privacy of the victim.

ARRESTED PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY

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