Former ag boss Bob Odom dies

Former Agriculture Commissioner Bob Odom died Saturday in Zachary. Arrangements are pending at Charlet.
Odom was among the state's most powerful and influential politicians during his 28 years as commissioner.
He first took office in 1980, defeating incumbent Gil Dozier. He lost his bid for an eight term to Mike Strain, bowing out of the runoff.
Survivors include his wife Millie, two children and four grandchildren.
In 2002 Odom was indicted on 21 counts, including money laundering, briber and extortion, accused of taking bribes for contracts and using department personnel and equipment to build homes for his children. Most of the charges were eventually thrown out, with the last piece of the case dismissed by an irate judge in April 2009.