NEW ORLEANS – The Louisiana National Guard, which has been mobilized in New Orleans since January, has helped local law enforcement work to reduce crime.
The Guard’s impact on crime is primarily as a force multiplier, enabling law enforcement officers to make arrests. Furthermore, law enforcement officials are noting positive trends.
During a Feb. 10 news conference, officials leading Operation NOLA Safe noted 175 arrests, the removal of more than 100 firearms, 20 kilograms of cocaine seized and the rescue of four victims of human trafficking, to date. The Louisiana National Guard, as contributors to the operation, aided this multi-agency effort as an amplifier.
Petty crimes and the prevention of physical altercations may not be reflected in quantifiable data; however, Soldiers’ presence is noted as deterring petty crime and scuffles.
The Louisiana National Guard also assisted directly with crowd control during major events such as New Year’s Eve, the Sugar Bowl and the 2026 Carnival Season.
Guardsmen are serving Federal Title 32 orders in New Orleans through February. They remain under the command authority of Gov. Jeff Landry and Maj. Gen. Thomas Friloux, the adjutant general of Louisiana.
“Louisiana Guardsmen are making a significant difference in New Orleans by working shoulder-to-shoulder with our law enforcement partners,” Friloux said. “Our presence is a proven deterrent to harmful activity, and we are fully committed to helping make this Mardi Gras season as safe as possible for our citizens and visitors who enjoy this city with its rich culture.”