Shreveport, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Rising crime rates in Shreveport were the focus of a Senate hearing led by Acting United States Attorney Alex Van Hook. The discussion highlighted alarming homicide statistics, with Shreveport having a murder rate higher than Chicago. The potential deployment of the National Guard to assist local law enforcement was also considered as officials work together to improve public safety amidst ongoing violence.
Shreveport – The rising crime challenges in Shreveport were prominently discussed in a recent Senate hearing on October 22, 2025, where Acting United States Attorney Alex Van Hook addressed the concerns regarding public safety and the potential deployment of the National Guard in response to violent crime. Van Hook’s statements come amid alarming comparisons between Shreveport and other major cities, particularly Chicago, where Senate discussions highlighted that Shreveport has a higher murder rate.
During the hearing, Senator Dick Durbin presented statistics from 2024 indicating that Shreveport’s homicide rate stood at 29.4 per 100,000, resulting in a total of 52 homicides. In contrast, Chicago’s homicide rate was 21.7 per 100,000, culminating in 573 homicides that same year. Despite the alarming figures, it is noteworthy that Shreveport’s murder rate saw a significant decrease from 44.9 per 100,000 in 2023, reflecting a 52.7% decrease. Conversely, Chicago experienced a rise in its homicide rate from 18.7 per 100,000 in 2023, marking a 16% increase.
The discussion also revolved around the deployment of the National Guard to assist in maintaining safety. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry formally requested National Guard troops to help combat crime in not just Shreveport, but also Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Van Hook expressed his support for this initiative, stating that the presence of National Guard members would be welcomed by local law enforcement.
In addition to addressing these challenges, Van Hook underscored the emphasis on collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to effectively tackle crime in Shreveport. He highlighted his office’s involvement in various operations aimed at combating illegal activities, noting that in April 2025, his office played a role in Operation Curveball, which resulted in the seizure of illegal drugs and cash and approximately 200 arrests.
Furthermore, Van Hook’s office is currently engaged in prosecuting individuals for their alleged involvement in various robberies, including one incident that resulted in a shooting. The Shreveport Police Department has also intensified efforts to track down wanted suspects in ongoing investigations of violent crime, reflecting a dedicated approach to restoring safety in the area.
As violence remains a pressing concern, discussions among officials continue to explore the most effective measures to improve public safety in Shreveport and beyond, positioning the National Guard as a possible pivotal resource in this widespread effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current homicide rate in Shreveport?
In 2024, Shreveport had a homicide rate of 29.4 per 100,000, translating to 52 homicides.
How does Shreveport’s homicide rate compare to Chicago’s?
Shreveport’s homicide rate is higher than Chicago’s, which had a homicide rate of 21.7 per 100,000 and 573 homicides in 2024.
How much has Shreveport’s murder rate decreased in recent years?
Shreveport’s murder rate decreased from 44.9 per 100,000 in 2023 to 29.4 in 2024, reflecting a 52.7% decrease.
What actions are being taken to address crime in Shreveport?
Lousiana Governor Jeff Landry has requested the deployment of the National Guard, which Acting U.S. Attorney Alex Van Hook supports, along with enhanced collaborations between various law enforcement agencies.
What was Operation Curveball?
In April 2025, Operation Curveball involved multiple agencies working together to seize illegal drugs and cash, leading to approximately 200 arrests.
| Feature | Shreveport | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Homicide Rate (2024) | 29.4 per 100,000 | 21.7 per 100,000 |
| Total Homicides (2024) | 52 | 573 |
| Homicide Rate Change (2023-2024) | 52.7% decrease | 16% increase |
| National Guard Deployment | Requested by Governor Jeff Landry, supported by Van Hook | N/A |
| Operation Curveball Arrests | Approximately 200 | N/A |
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Senator Durbin Compares Shreveport & Chicago Murder Rates
- KTBS: Two Wanted in Murder Attempt of Shreveport Job Corps Employee Now in Custody
- KTAL: Two Arrested, Two Sought in Shooting Outside Shreveport Job Corps Center
- 710 KEEL: Shooting Incident in Shreveport
- KSLA: Man Arrested in Attempted Murder Mass Shooting Case
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
- Google Search: Shreveport crime news
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- Google Scholar: Shreveport crime statistics
- Google News: Shreveport crime
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.
