NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) -On Friday (July 25) at Gallier Hall, 19 new officers were sworn into the New Orleans Police Department. Police Superintendent Ann Kirkpatrick addressed the graduates of Recruit Class 204 during the ceremony, telling them they’re joining the force during a pivotal moment for the city.
“Violent crime is down to historic lows. Trust is rebuilding in this police department, so you are joining this department at a time when we are making a real difference,” said Police Superintendent Ann Kirkpatrick.
Mayor LaToya Cantrell appointed Kirkpatrick to lead the department after Shaun Ferguson, the former superintendent, retired in 2022. Kirkpatrick was sworn in in November 2023. Since then, the city has seen significant declines in violent crime. Data released this week by the NOLA Coalition shows that overall crime has dropped 68%, while homicides have fallen 67% over the past three years. Public support for Kirkpatrick has remained strong…