NEW ORLEANS, La. — The National Guard, authorized by President Trump, will begin deployment in New Orleans on Tuesday in preparation for New Year’s celebrations. This deployment comes a year after a tragic incident on Bourbon Street that resulted in the deaths of 14 revelers. Local officials have implemented significant security presence to ensure public safety.
With a focus on maintaining peace during upcoming festivities, particularly the Carnival season leading up to Mardi Gras, 350 Guard members will primarily patrol tourist-heavy areas such as the French Quarter. Officials have emphasized that the deployment will not involve immigration enforcement, reiterating the commitment to enhancing the visibility of security services to reassure the public.
Police spokesperson Reese Harper stated, This is for visibility and just really to keep our citizens safe. It's just another tool in the toolbox and another layer of security. More than 800 law enforcement officials, including local and federal agents, will enforce restrictions and monitor the Bourbon Street area, ensuring traffic is controlled and public safety is prioritized.
This heightened security comes in the wake of last year’s attack, where a vehicle struck a crowd, leading to heightened fears surrounding urban celebrations. Though neighborhood leaders expressed concerns regarding the necessity of a National Guard presence, statistics show a decrease in crime in the city, prompting a debate over the measures chosen for public safety at larger gatherings.
The National Guard is expected to remain through the Carnival festivities, with the potential for security support continuing into February’s Mardi Gras celebrations. The City of New Orleans aims to sustain a celebratory atmosphere while ensuring safety is not compromised.
With a focus on maintaining peace during upcoming festivities, particularly the Carnival season leading up to Mardi Gras, 350 Guard members will primarily patrol tourist-heavy areas such as the French Quarter. Officials have emphasized that the deployment will not involve immigration enforcement, reiterating the commitment to enhancing the visibility of security services to reassure the public.
Police spokesperson Reese Harper stated, This is for visibility and just really to keep our citizens safe. It's just another tool in the toolbox and another layer of security. More than 800 law enforcement officials, including local and federal agents, will enforce restrictions and monitor the Bourbon Street area, ensuring traffic is controlled and public safety is prioritized.
This heightened security comes in the wake of last year’s attack, where a vehicle struck a crowd, leading to heightened fears surrounding urban celebrations. Though neighborhood leaders expressed concerns regarding the necessity of a National Guard presence, statistics show a decrease in crime in the city, prompting a debate over the measures chosen for public safety at larger gatherings.
The National Guard is expected to remain through the Carnival festivities, with the potential for security support continuing into February’s Mardi Gras celebrations. The City of New Orleans aims to sustain a celebratory atmosphere while ensuring safety is not compromised.
