MAYOR CANTRELL, SENATOR HARRIS AND NOPD CHIEF KIRKPATRICK ANNOUNCE FUNDING FOR PUBLIC SAFETY EQUIPMENT AS PART OF ACT 170

October 11, 2024 | From City of New Orleans

MAYOR CANTRELL, SENATOR HARRIS AND NOPD CHIEF KIRKPATRICK ANNOUNCE FUNDING FOR PUBLIC SAFETY EQUIPMENT AS PART OF ACT 170

Mayor LaToya Cantrell today was joined by New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick and Captain Wayne Delarge to showcase new public safety equipment received as a part of a funding appropriation from State Senator Jimmy Harris, District 4.The Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice Coordination (OCJC) was awarded $100,000 as a part of Act 170, which aims to support economic development, youth and families, cultural economy, mental health, and criminal justice coordination in the New Orleans.

"Senator Harris' unwavering commitment to this community is one of passion and love to better our community for everyone," said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. "The new bikes and other equipment items are significant investments to the department that will ensure expanded community outreach where vehicle passage is not possible. Criminal Justice Commissioner Tenisha Stevens and OCJC remain committed to both the immediate benefits of this funding as well as the long-term benefit of continued investments to support the men and women who selflessly protect our city and meaningfully engage with
our residents every day."

"As a public servant, an elected official, and a resident of New Orleans, public safety has always been and will continue to be a top priority. Supporting and investing in the New Orleans Police Department to further our commitment to public safety is a no-brainer," said State Senator Jimmy Harris.

OCJC allocated $75,000 toward the purchase of the following equipment items for the NOPD:

• 3 Bicycles

• 2 Med kits

• 5 Radio Kits

• 1 Bug Sweeper

• 30 In-car printer's w/ installation

• 38 Laptops and Dock Stations

This investment in public safety will provide essential tools and resources as force multipliers for law enforcement. The bikes provided will be used for special events by the NOPD Crime Prevention and Community Engagement Units. The laptops and in-car printers will be used by the NOPD Homicide Unit and 7th District Station Social Workers. Additionally, the communications equipment will be used for the Chief of Operations and Office of the Superintendent.

"Our priority is ensuring that our officers have the tools and resources they need to serve New Orleans effectively and safely. This investment in updated equipment is a key step in enhancing our ability to protect and engage with our community. With these advancements, we're not only improving our efficiency but also reinforcing our commitment to a safer city for all," said Chief Anne Kirkpatrick.

Through these partnerships, the City continues to address long-standing challenges and prioritize crime prevention. "I want to thank State Senator Jimmy Harris for his sponsorship of Act 170. Often, we talk about departments not having efficient equipment to do their job, so this is a step in the right direction. Our officers are here to protect and serve and should be allowed to have what is needed not only to do their job but to protect our communities. The ability to stay up to date with equipment can mean the difference between life and death and keeping our citizens safe," said Councilman Oliver Thomas, Chair, City Council Criminal Justice Committee.

This administration continues to connect-the-dots to improve the City for today, and well into the future. According to a recent survey, public opinion in New Orleans has improved compared to previous years, with residents feeling more optimistic about the City's future.

"Community engagement is a key element of constitutional policing, The Office of Criminal Justice Coordination is grateful to Senator Harris for his continued support to increase community safety." said Tenisha Stevens, Criminal Justice Commissioner. The City of New Orleans continues to take a holistic approach, strategically leveraging its resources to improve our city today and into the future."

OCJC also allocated $25,000 to the Family Center of Hope to support their parenting program as well as their Saturday programs for young people.

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