Shreveport, Louisiana, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Governor Jeff Landry of Louisiana has requested the deployment of up to 1,000 National Guard troops to address escalating crime rates in Shreveport and other cities. Despite recent reductions in crime, officials stress the need for continued law enforcement support. Mayor Tom Arceneaux is coordinating with local authorities, while concerns regarding militarization and public trust remain prevalent. The Secretary of War will ultimately decide on the deployment request as officials balance safety and community rights.
Shreveport, Louisiana – On September 29, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry formally requested the deployment of National Guard members to combat crime concerns in Shreveport and several other cities, including Baton Rouge and New Orleans. This request includes a potential deployment of up to 1,000 Louisiana National Guard troops aimed at enhancing law enforcement efforts in urban areas facing elevated crime rates.
In a statement issued on October 1, the City of Shreveport confirmed that discussions about the presence of National Guard troops are ongoing. Shreveport officials noted that crime rates have been trending downward over the past two years, with violent crime experiencing a 10% decrease and murders dropping by more than 20% in 2025. However, Governor Landry highlighted that while progress has been made, the job is not finished, and the need for federal partnerships remains crucial.
Mayor Tom Arceneaux is currently coordinating with local law enforcement and representatives from the National Guard to determine the best approach for deploying troops in Shreveport. He has emphasized the necessity of managing the potential stationing of military personnel with care, preserving citizens’ rights, and maintaining public trust between law enforcement and the community. The City Council Chairwoman, Tabatha Taylor, also stressed the importance of ensuring that any deployment fosters a stronger relationship between law enforcement and citizens.
Despite the ongoing discussions and potential deployment, some local officials have raised concerns regarding the militarization of the streets. Congressman Troy Carter, representing New Orleans, has expressed significant worry, advocating for increased investment in policing and crime prevention rather than relying on a military presence. In contrast, Congresswoman Julia Letlow from Baton Rouge expressed her support for the National Guard’s involvement, citing a demand for enhanced public safety among her constituents.
Governor Landry’s request for National Guard assistance stems from what he characterized as critical personnel shortages within local law enforcement agencies. He noted that high crime rates, which include homicides, carjackings, and gang violence, exceed national averages. The deployment of National Guard troops is expected to supplement existing law enforcement presence in high-crime areas, providing crucial logistical support.
Historically, National Guard deployments have been initiated in Louisiana during major events, such as Mardi Gras, typically leading to reductions in crime rates during those periods. However, the state currently ranks as one of the most dangerous in the nation, with a violent crime rate in 2024 that is 44.8% higher than the national average.
The decision to approve or deny Governor Landry’s request rests with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Local officials have expressed various concerns regarding the necessity and implications of the deployment, yet Landry insists that immediate action is vital to address the ongoing crime crisis in Louisiana.
FAQ
What is the primary objective of deploying National Guard troops in Louisiana cities?
The deployment aims to enhance law enforcement efforts in urban areas facing elevated crime rates.
How many National Guard troops has Governor Jeff Landry requested?
Governor Landry has requested the potential deployment of up to 1,000 Louisiana National Guard troops.
What crime trends have Shreveport officials reported?
Shreveport officials noted that crime rates have been trending downward over the past two years, with violent crime down 10% and murders down over 20% in 2025.
What concerns have been raised regarding the National Guard’s presence?
Concerns include the potential militarization of the streets and the need to maintain public trust and protect citizens’ rights.
Who is currently making decisions related to the deployment request?
The decision on whether the National Guard support is necessary rests with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
Key Features of National Guard Deployment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | Enhance law enforcement in high-crime urban areas |
| Troop Request | Up to 1,000 Louisiana National Guard troops |
| Recent Crime Trends | Violent crime down 10%, murders down over 20% in Shreveport |
| Main Concern | Militarization of streets and protecting citizens’ rights |
| Authorities in Charge | Secretary of War Pete Hegseth will decide on the request |
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Additional Resources
- KSLA: Shreveport Responds to Potential National Guard Presence
- Shreveport Times: National Guard Troops May Soon Patrol
- The News Star: Congressman Reacts to National Guard Troops in Louisiana
- Fox News: Louisiana Governor Requests 1,000 National Guard Troops
- New York Times: Jeff Landry and Louisiana National Guard
- Wikipedia: National Guard of the United States
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.
