Teen found dead 4 days after she is reported missing, cops arrest three suspects

Louisiana police have arrested three men on suspicion of playing a role in the kidnapping and murder a 19-year-old woman.

According to the New York Post, Emily Rodgers was reported missing Friday evening. Her body was recovered four days later by deputies searching near the community of Maurepas.

Shortly after the teen’s remains were found, police announced that “those close to the investigation” provided authorities with conflicting information.

Investigators said at the time that they suspected foul play was involved in her disappearance and death, as reported by WAFB.

“This was a nonstop, 48-hour type deal once we realized this is not just a missing person, this is not just a runaway,” said Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard.

The three suspects, 35-year-old John Cowart, 29-year-old Derek Williford and 33-year-old Justin Scivicque, had reportedly been arrested as of Tuesday evening.

As Ard explained in a statement this week, Cowart is accused of killing Rodgers. The other two suspects allegedly concealed information about the crime.

Police say they are still waiting for the results of an autopsy, which they hope will provide more information about the circumstances of her death. Ard said investigators had not yet determined a possible motive for the homicide.

Cowart was reportedly booked into Livingston Parish Jail with bond set at $150,000. He faces charges of second-degree murder and obstructing justice.

Scivicque is charged with principal to second-degree murder and Williford is charged with obstruction of justice. Their bond was set at $150,000 and $200,000, respectively.

[Featured image: John Cowart, Justin Scivicque and Derek Williford Livingston Parish Jail]