Friday, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry (R-LA) issued a state of emergency due to a severe shortage of law enforcement officers.
Just days before the legislature convenes for a special session on crime, which the governor claims will concentrate on reforming soft-on-crime policies and bolstering the criminal justice system, Landry issued the proclamation in an executive order.
“As a former police officer and sheriff’s deputy, I understand the vital role our law enforcement officers play in our communities. Currently, our state is facing a shortage of officers, resulting in increased crime and less public safety. Today’s executive order, and the upcoming crime special session, will ensure our law enforcement officers are supported and we can begin to bring law and order back to our state,” Landry remarked.
As of July 2023, the Louisiana Sheriffs Association reports that a deficit of 1,800 deputies has developed.
Cities across the nation have struggled to recruit and retain police officers in response to rising crime rates and the efforts of some activists to “defund the police.”
This order was issued by Landry. There are even organizations that are contemplating permitting non-citizens to serve in the police force.
Furthermore, Landry requests that the legislature consider the following during the special session: limiting parole eligibility, broadening the standards for revocation of parole and probation, augmenting penalties for carjackings, classifying illegal weapon use as a violent crime, granting peace officers immunity under specific conditions, and establishing a criminal offense for the distribution of fentanyl to minors.
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