Shreveport, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has requested the deployment of National Guard members to Shreveport and other cities. Despite a significant decline in crime rates over the past two years, local leaders are debating the necessity of this action. Mayor Tom Arceneaux has expressed that the city is not in crisis and that any assistance should focus on long-term solutions rather than temporary military deployments. Mixed opinions from residents and officials highlight the ongoing discussion about how best to ensure community safety.
Shreveport – In a recent development, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has requested the deployment of National Guard members to various cities across the state, including Shreveport. This request was submitted on September 29 and has initiated discussions among local leaders about the necessity and implications of such a move.
On October 1, the City of Shreveport published a statement regarding the potential presence of National Guard troops, asserting that the community has seen a significant decline in crime rates. Over the past two years, violent crime in Shreveport has decreased by 10%, and the murder rate has dropped by over 20% in 2025. These improving statistics indicate a positive trend in community safety.
Mayor Tom Arceneaux emphasized that while discussions about the deployment have taken place, they have been brief and suggest that Shreveport does not currently seem in crisis. The mayor pointed out that there has been a nearly 50% decline in the homicide rate since 2022, further affirming the city’s progress in reducing violence.
Additionally, Shreveport’s local law enforcement agencies have been succeeding in closing homicide cases at a rate that exceeds the national average. Despite these achievements, there remains an acknowledgment of the need for ongoing enhancements in crime reduction efforts. Mayor Arceneaux indicated that while assistance is welcomed, it should focus on long-term investments such as better officer pay and modern technology rather than temporary deployments of military personnel.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the potential impact of a National Guard presence. Some local leaders believe it may overshadow the successes achieved by local law enforcement and communicate a troubling message about the state of safety in Shreveport. Mayor Arceneaux has submitted several inquiries to state officials, seeking clarification on the number of troops that could be deployed and how their activities would be coordinated within the city.
In connection with the request, Louisiana National Guard General Thomas C. Friloux stated that the deployment would be arranged in collaboration with city leaders, indicating an effort to ensure that the assistance provided is constructive and aligned with local needs.
On the political front, Congressman Cleo Fields has voiced opposition to the deployment, suggesting that prior partnerships with the state police in cities like New Orleans are already producing favorable outcomes. Fields criticized the idea of ramping up enforcement through the National Guard, asserting that it does not address the underlying causes of crime and could potentially undermine local police effectiveness.
In the community, opinions are mixed regarding the necessity of additional manpower. Many residents feel that the decline in crime statistics negates the need for the National Guard’s deployment, as local law enforcement continues to make progress. The Shreveport Police Department acknowledged the advancements made but recognized that continuous improvements are essential for maintaining safety and enhancing community trust.
As discussions continue, the future of the National Guard’s potential involvement in Shreveport remains uncertain, with local leaders weighing the balance between security assistance and fostering local policing efforts.
FAQ
- When did Governor Jeff Landry request the deployment of National Guard members to Shreveport?
- On September 29.
- What has been the trend in crime rates in Shreveport over the past two years?
- Crime rates have trended downward, with violent crime down by 10% and murders down by over 20% in 2025.
- What is Mayor Tom Arceneaux’s view on the deployment of National Guard troops?
- He indicated that discussions about the deployment have been brief and stated that Shreveport does not currently appear to be a city in crisis.
- How has the homicide rate changed since 2022?
- The homicide rate in Shreveport has declined by nearly 50% since 2022.
- What are some concerns regarding the deployment of the National Guard?
- Concerns include overshadowing local successes and sending the wrong message about community safety.
- What does Mayor Arceneaux suggest instead of deploying the National Guard?
- He believes assistance should come in the form of long-term investments such as better officer pay and technology.
- What is Congressman Cleo Fields’ stance on the National Guard deployment?
- He opposes the measure and argues that previous efforts with the state police in New Orleans are yielding positive results.
- What is the opinion of some community members regarding the need for additional manpower?
- Some community members believe that additional manpower is unnecessary given the recent drops in crime statistics.
Key Features of the Article
- Request for National Guard Deployment: Submitted by Governor Jeff Landry.
- Crime Rate Improvements: Violent crime down by 10%; murders down by over 20% in 2025.
- Mayor’s Concerns: No current perception of crisis; emphasis on long-term investment over temporary measures.
- Local Law Enforcement Success: Higher-than-average homicide case closure rates.
- Political Opposition: Congressman Cleo Fields argues against the deployment, citing previous successes with state police.
- Community Sentiment: Mixed feelings about the need for additional manpower given recent crime reduction statistics.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Governor Requests National Guard Deployment Amid Crime Concerns
17-Year-Old Arrested for Homicide in Shreveport
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson Addresses Local Business Concerns
DHS’s Controversial DNA Collection Practices Under Scrutiny
Mike Johnson Addresses Business Leaders in Bossier City
Foreign Brands Profit from Memorial Merchandise After Tragedy
66-Year-Old Retiree Realizes Dream by Joining LSU Marching Band
Mike Johnson Addresses National Violence and Economic Measures
Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Sparks Conspiracy Theories
Thousands Honor Legacy of Charlie Kirk in Arizona
Additional Resources
- KSLA: City of Shreveport Responds to Potential National Guard Presence
- Shreveport Times: Congressman Reacts to National Guard Troops
- KTBS: Mayor Says National Guard Not Needed
- KSLA: Shreveport Residents Opposed to National Guard Presence
- Wikipedia: Shreveport, Louisiana
- Google Search: Crime Rates in Shreveport
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
