In brief
Governor Jeff Landry of Louisiana has formally requested the deployment of up to 1,000 National Guard troops to combat elevated crime rates in cities such as New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The request, marked as a response to rising violent crime and a shortage of police personnel, has received support from President Donald Trump. Despite the request, recent data indicate a decline in homicide rates in major Louisiana cities. Landry emphasized the need for support during major events and challenges posed by natural disasters.
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Louisiana’s Republican Governor Jeff Landry has requested the deployment of up to 1,000 National Guard troops to address rising crime rates in New Orleans and other cities. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Landry praised recent troop deployments in Washington, D.C., and Memphis as successful measures against crime. This comes amid rising fears related to violent crime, particularly in Shreveport and Baton Rouge, although recent statistics suggest a decrease in homicides in New Orleans compared to previous years. Landry noted support would be especially useful during major events such as Mardi Gras. Criticism has emerged from leaders in Democratic-controlled states regarding the necessity of such deployments.
