Shreveport, LA, September 8, 2025
News Summary
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux is considering the deployment of the Louisiana National Guard to assist with crime reduction in the city. Amid discussions at the federal level regarding sending troops to combat crime in Louisiana, the mayor acknowledges a significant 43% decrease in homicides in Shreveport compared to last year. The community’s efforts, such as increased policing and engagement, have contributed to this decline. Local officials are exploring all available resources for further improvements in public safety.
Shreveport Mayor Open to National Guard Support Amid Decrease in Violent Crime
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux has indicated his willingness to consider the deployment of the Louisiana National Guard to help address crime in the city. This statement comes in response to recent discussions at the federal level about sending troops to combat crime in Louisiana.
President Donald Trump mentioned the potential deployment of federal troops to New Orleans as a measure to tackle increasing crime rates. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed his support for this initiative and suggested extending similar assistance to Shreveport. Trump emphasized that federal troops could resolve the crime problem in New Orleans within two weeks.
Landry noted improvements in violent crime rates in several Louisiana cities, including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport. He indicated that he would welcome President Trump’s help from New Orleans to benefit Shreveport as well.
This interest in additional support comes after Landry had previously deployed 150 Louisiana National Guard troops to Washington D.C. at Trump’s request to address crime concerns. Mayor Arceneaux recognized Landry’s focus on public safety and expressed support for the idea of bringing in additional resources to combat crime in Shreveport.
Statistics show a significant 43% decrease in homicides in Shreveport compared to the previous year. This has been attributed to effective policing by the Shreveport Police Department, despite a decrease in the number of P.O.S.T.-certified officers available for duty. Currently, Shreveport is not ranked among the ten most dangerous cities in Louisiana, unlike in previous years.
As of mid-August, Shreveport recorded 24 homicides, down from 39 at the same time last year. Mayor Arceneaux has credited the city’s police reduction efforts and community engagement efforts for these improvements. He emphasized the city’s dedication to maintaining public safety and well-being.
Discussions regarding resource allocation will involve local, state, and federal officials. These discussions aim to develop long-term solutions, including increasing the number of P.O.S.T.-certified officers and improving police funding and compensation.
The conversation about Shreveport’s crime rates gained further attention when California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the city, suggesting that its crime statistics highlighted the need for federal intervention. This comparison drew backlash from officials in Louisiana, including U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who defended Shreveport’s success in reducing crime rates. Both Johnson and Landry suggested that Newsom focus on addressing problems in California rather than criticizing Shreveport.
Mayor Arceneaux has sought to counter Newsom’s negative portrayal of Shreveport, reaffirming the city’s progress in crime statistics and law enforcement efforts. The Louisiana National Guard has confirmed that they stand ready to support missions whenever ordered, signaling a potential shift in resources if federal assistance is needed.
Ongoing Crime Statistics and Community Efforts
Shreveport’s ongoing efforts to combat crime have already demonstrated effectiveness in reducing violence. The focus on community engagement and police support continues to be a priority for the city as officials explore all possible avenues for improvement, including potential assistance from state and federal resources.
Conclusion
Overall, Shreveport is actively addressing its crime rates through local initiatives and is open to additional support from the state and federal government, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing public safety and community well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent crime rate changes have occurred in Shreveport?
Shreveport has reported a 43% decrease in homicides compared to the previous year, with 24 homicides recorded as of mid-August, down from 39 at the same time last year.
Is the National Guard expected to be deployed in Shreveport?
Mayor Tom Arceneaux is open to considering the deployment of the Louisiana National Guard for support, depending on discussions with local, state, and federal officials.
How has the community policing impacted crime rates in Shreveport?
The Shreveport Police Department’s efforts in community engagement and proactive policing have been credited with the significant reduction in violent crime over the past year.
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Additional Resources
- Reuters: Residents in High Crime City Oppose Trump’s Troop Plan
- Shreveport Times: Arceneaux’s Comments on National Guard Deployment
- KSLA: Gov Landry Welcomes National Guard to Address Crime
- Wikipedia: Crime in Louisiana
- Eastern Progress: Shreveport Officials Respond to Governor Newsom
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.
