Louisiana artists delivers Lt. Boutte portrait to Hancock County Sheriff’s Department

Funeral services for Lt. Michael Boutte will be held in Hancock County Tuesday.

News 25’s Sabria Reid takes us to Hancock County Sheriff’s Department for the delivery of a portrait made to remember the fallen officer.

In remembrance of fallen Lt. Michael Boutte, Louisiana artist and fellow law enforcement officer Rodney King painted a portrait of a hero he never had the chance to meet. Today, King made a trip to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department to deliver his work to Sheriff Ricky Adam. “It’s overwhelming at the first meeting, but as it progressed, he made me feel welcomed here. His son, Boutte Jr., reached out to me, thanking me for the portrait and also his wife.”

After delivering the portrait to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, the men sat down and talked and the artist learned more about the man he never knew.

After seeing the car memorial, sympathy cards, and community mourning for Lt. Boutte with his own eyes, King said, “You show a greater respect for law enforcement. Even though I am a police officer, it’s just surreal.”

King has always had a niche for art. His mom Janice tells News 25 it brings her joy seeing her son touch so many lives with his paintings. “I’m proud of what he’s doing and watching him hand deliver this portrait is just something that touches my heart.”

The Louisiana artist worked in a funeral home for nine years, giving him inspiration for cremation art and portraits honoring those who have passed on. “A painting is the smallest thing I could give to him. So, I’m just using my art to show joy in their family.”

King hopes his art can help a family going through a very difficult time. “Hopefully this painting sees its way to his wife because that is the goal for her to have it and display it in her home.”