Gov. Landry praises major crime drop in New Orleans, says more to come

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry visited New Orleans on Thursday (Nov. 7) to thank law enforcement officers and prosecutors who have contributed to a notable decrease in violent crime across the city.

Speaking at the Metropolitan Crime Commission's annual luncheon, Landry highlighted the work of officers and Troop NOLA in bringing about double-digit declines in homicides and gun violence, calling it one of the most substantial crime reductions in recent years.

The luncheon, held in a packed downtown ballroom with around 700 attendees, included a tribute to officers who have made critical arrests in the fight against crime, including those who solved the murder of Bogalusa High School senior Aaron Brown.

Statistics show a 39% drop in homicides this year, which many attribute to an increased law enforcement presence, especially the 18 permanent state troopers assigned to Troop NOLA under Landry's administration.

"One of the things that I think is the biggest success about Troop NOLA is that we came in not just with the idea that it was for tourists or businesses, it was for the entire city," said Gov. Landry.

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While the crime crackdown has been effective, it has also led to challenges within the Orleans Justice Center, which now houses over 250 inmates above its council-approved capacity.

Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson is requesting an additional $33 million in funding to cover the growing costs, which include hiring and retaining staff to manage the increased inmate population.

Rafael Goyeneche of the Metropolitan Crime Commission says it is important to retain jail staff.

"It's critically important she has proper staffing and some continuity in her staff so that she doesn't lose them to a better-paying job in the private sector," said Goyeneche.

Local crime experts credit the use of surveillance tools, such as cameras and drones, for supporting the recent progress. Governor Landry assured residents that continued efforts and resources are forthcoming to make the city permanently safer.

"We still have much more to do, and much more that's required, until the peace is permanent," he said.

Since June, Troop NOLA officers have made 180 felony arrests.