Recently, concerns have been raised about crime in Kenner, Louisiana, with officials pointing to issues they associate with illegal immigration and gang activity.
Governor Jeff Landry and Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley have both spoken publicly about these challenges, highlighting a complex situation that involves a small subset of the immigrant population.
Governor Landry, after visiting the US-Mexico border, discussed on a national news platform the situation in Kenner, located adjacent to New Orleans. He mentioned that there are reports of illegal immigrants in Kenner engaging in criminal recruitment activities, particularly targeting young newcomers to the country.
Chief Conley, in a separate interview, acknowledged the presence of gangs in Kenner that include individuals who are in the country illegally. However, he emphasized that the vast majority of immigrants are law-abiding and contribute positively to the community.
Conley pointed out that a small percentage are involved in criminal activities that disrupt community safety and quality of life. He suggested that illegal residents involved in crime pose a challenge for local law enforcement.