For more than 30 years, the New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation (NOPJF) has answered the call when the City of New Orleans has faced urgent public safety challenges. Today, that commitment continues through the Foundation’s role in supporting the City’s new emergency alert system for vulnerable individuals. The “NOLA Alert” also referred to as a “Bryan Alert” is an initiative that grew from a motion originally introduced by then–City Council Vice President Helena Moreno, who now serves as Mayor of New Orleans.

The new alert system was launched in December 2025 to address a critical gap in public safety communications. While Amber Alerts and Silver Alerts are powerful tools, many vulnerable missing individuals do not meet the strict state or federal criteria required to activate those systems. As a result, some endangered people – including individuals with mental health conditions, developmental disabilities, cognitive impairments, or others believed to be at risk of exploitation or trafficking – may not receive the immediate public visibility needed to help bring them home safely.

Recognizing that gap, City leaders, the New Orleans Police Department Special Victims Unit, NOPJF, and community partners worked together to create a faster, broader, and more flexible emergency response effort focused on vulnerable missing persons.

Under this program, the NOPJF team responds 24 hours a day, 7 days a week whenever the NOPD Special Victims Unit issues one of these alerts. The Foundation immediately begins coordinating public awareness efforts that include:

• Designing and distributing digital billboard layouts for Lamar Advertising featuring the missing individual
• Sharing alerts across social media platforms
• Sending push notifications to members of the Ring Neighborhood community network
• Amplifying information through community partnerships and media outreach

Importantly, the NOPJF provides these services at absolutely no cost to the NOPD or the City of New Orleans.

A key partner in this effort is Lamar Advertising, whose team also responds around the clock to ensure billboard alerts are activated quickly across Orleans Parish and, when needed, neighboring parishes. Their partnership reflects a deep commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the New Orleans community. By rapidly displaying images and information throughout the region, the campaign dramatically increases public awareness during the critical early hours of a disappearance.

These alerts can be especially important in cases where individuals may be vulnerable to human trafficking or exploitation. Time is often the most important factor in safely recovering missing persons, and the ability to mobilize public attention immediately can make a life-saving difference.

This initiative represents another example of the New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation stepping forward to solve complex public safety challenges facing the City. Throughout its 30-year history, the Foundation has supported innovative policing tools, officer wellness programs, technology upgrades, youth initiatives, crime prevention efforts, and emergency response programs that strengthen public safety for all New Orleanians.

The vulnerable persons alert program demonstrates what is possible when public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector partners come together with a shared mission: protecting the people of New Orleans and bringing vulnerable individuals home safely.

New Orleans is a city unlike any other in America. We are home to 340,000 residents and host nearly 19 million visitors each year. We manage global events, complex infrastructure, major waterways, dense historic neighborhoods, and a service economy that never sleeps. And yet, our police staffing has fallen to levels not seen in decades.

The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) is currently operating with roughly 900 sworn officers. For a city with our workload and responsibilities, that number is not sustainable. After reviewing almost every objective measure available (population ratios, calls for service, geography, history, and overtime costs) the conclusion is unmistakable:

New Orleans needs approximately 1,200 sworn officers. This is not a guesstimate, political, or aspirational number. It is the product of math.

Start With National Standards

Across the country, cities with populations above 250,000 average between 2.3 and 2.7 officers per 1,000 residents. Using a conservative 2.5 ratio:

350,000 residents ÷ 1,000 x 2.5 = 875 deployable officers.

But no department is 100% deployable. Officers are assigned to investigations, supervision, training, federal compliance, and specialty units. Others are on leave or restricted duty. Applying a standard operational multiplier of 1.4 brings the total required sworn strength to roughly 1,200 officers.

Then Adjust for Who We Actually Police

New Orleans does not serve just its residents.

With 19 million visitors annually, the city averages more than 50,000 additional people here every day and far more during peak events like Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

That pushes our effective daily service population close to 400,000 people.

Using the same national ratios, the math again lands at approximately 1,200 officers.

The Workload Tells the Same Story

Perhaps the most revealing measure is calls for service. NOPD responds to roughly 400,000 – 450,000 calls annually. That includes emergency dispatches, priority incidents, and officer-initiated activity.

With 900 officers, that equates to roughly 450–500 calls per officer per year before accounting for report writing, investigations, court appearances, training, or consent decree requirements.

National workload standards suggest a sustainable level is closer to 300–350 calls per officer annually.

At 1,200 officers: 400,000 ÷ 1,200 = 333 calls per officer.

That is sustainable policing. That allows time for follow-up investigations. That allows proactive engagement. That reduces burnout.

Geography Matters, Too

New Orleans spans approximately 170 developed square miles requiring patrol coverage, along with waterways, interstates, port facilities, and historic districts.

Urban patrol standards commonly suggest 6–8 officers per square mile in high-demand environments. Using the midpoint produces a staffing need just under 1,200 officers.

Again, the math converges.

Look at Comparable Cities

Cities facing similar crime and service demands staff at significantly higher levels.

• St. Louis, MO maintains around 4.9 officers per 1,000 residents.
• Baltimore, MD operates near 3.6 per 1,000.
• Cleveland, OH (the closest comparison in this category) utilizes 3.4 per 1,000.

Even at 1,200 officers (3.5 per 1,000), New Orleans would not be an outlier. It would simply be aligned with cities of comparable complexity.

The Financial Argument Is Just As Strong

Understaffing is expensive.

The City is fined around $214,000 each month ($2.5 Million/year) by the Municipal Police Employees’ Retirement System (MPERS) for losing a large percentage of NOPD officers in 2020-2021 and declaring the NOPD a “partially dissolved agency.” This fine has continued to compound despite current legal arguments and the precariousness of the situation certainly has an impact on recruiting and retention.

To compensate for low manpower, the City currently spends approximately $18-20 million annually in anticipated overtime. 2025 saw several “black swan” events that forced this number to around $50 million.

If roughly 300 additional officers were hired to bring the department to 1,200:

$18 million ÷ 300 = $60,000 per officer.

Each additional officer offsets approximately $60,000 per year in overtime costs alone – a figure that closely mirrors average salary levels. In practical terms, rebuilding staffing largely pays for itself while dramatically improving officer wellness and operational efficiency.

Burnout declines. Sick leave drops. Errors decrease. Response times improve.

History Confirms It

From the post–World War II era through the early 2000s, NOPD staffing consistently hovered between 1,100 and 1,600 officers. The current sub-1,000 staffing level is a historic anomaly, not a norm.

When adjusted for today’s population and service environment, the historical average aligns almost exactly with 1,200 officers.

This Is About Sustainability

Below 900 officers, policing becomes reactive. Investigations stall. Community engagement shrinks. Overtime balloons. Officers burn out.

At 1,200 officers, the department can:

• Staff patrol districts consistently
• Support specialized investigative units
• Cover major events without stripping neighborhoods
• Reduce delayed responses
• Maintain compliance with federal standards
• Expand community engagement initiatives
• Operate within a fiscally responsible overtime structure

The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation supports rebuilding the department to 1,200 sworn officers because every responsible analytical method points to that number.

Population math supports it.
Tourism math supports it.
Geographic math supports it.
Workload math supports it.
Historical precedent supports it.
Financial analysis supports it.

When six different calculations lead to the same conclusion, that conclusion deserves serious attention.

New Orleans is a world-class city. It deserves a police force sized to meet its real-world demands – not one stretched to its breaking point. Can civilian personnel or technology like drones offset the staffing? Possibly, but that requires a significant investment and substantial change in how the community utilizes their police department. For now, “doing more with less,” is simply not an option.

The math is clear. New Orleans needs 1,200 officers.

2026 New Orleans Crime Coalition Survey reveals growing generational divide in overall satisfaction of the police and perceptions of safety

NEW ORLEANS, La., February 4, 2026 — Public satisfaction with the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) continues to rise, reaching 55%, up eight points since June 2025. That’s according to the 17th annual NOPD Citizen Satisfaction Survey, commissioned by the New Orleans Crime Coalition (NOCC).

The survey also finds that NOPD satisfaction has increased 24 percentage points since Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick took office in 2023 (from 31% to 55%).

View the Full 2026 NOPD Survey Results Here

View the Full 2026 New Orleans Civic Policymakers Survey Results Here

“Seeing public satisfaction with the NOPD rise for a third straight year is a sign that reforms and renewed leadership are making an impact,” said Mike Cowan, chairman of the New Orleans Crime Coalition. “Residents are beginning to feel safer, and confidence is returning. This survey gives the city a clear roadmap for where progress is happening and where more work is needed to build trust across every neighborhood and every generation.” Faucheux Strategies, LLC conducted a survey from January 26-31, 2026 using live telephone interviews to track key metrics related to residents’ perceptions of the NOPD. The poll surveyed a representative sample of 800 New Orleans adults (18 and older) and has a margin of error of ±3.46%

While historically the New Orleans Crime Coalition survey has been conducted in late May and/or early June, the 2026 survey was timed to provide baseline data for the new city administration, which took office on January 12.

Key Findings:

• The NOPD’s overall satisfaction rating is now 55%, up 8 points over the June 2025 survey. Negative ratings went down substantially, dropping 15 points from 38% in the last survey to 23% now. Currently, 53% of Black residents and 59% of White residents say they’re satisfied with the
job the NOPD is doing.

• Nearly two-thirds of residents (66%) say they believe the city is safe. That’s a 12-point improvement over the last survey. Currently, 64% of Black residents and 67% of White residents view the city as safe.
• Residents continue to feel safer in their own neighborhoods than in the city overall: 87% say their neighborhood is safe, compared to 66% who say the same for the city as a whole.
• Willingness to contact Crimestoppers remains strong (87%), increasing four percentage points since the last survey.
• Strong majorities of residents – ranging from 67% to 94% – support crime-reduction strategies including improving police capacity to solve and investigate crimes, increasing manpower to patrol neighborhoods, improving social and counseling programs, and expanding the use of computer analytics, camera technology and facial recognition as crime-fighting tools.
• 67% of residents support the NOPD’s use of facial recognition technology to help reduce crime. This includes 72% of Black residents and 60% of White residents.
• 79% of residents support increasing NOPD’s legal use of camera technology to solve crime. This includes 81% of Black residents and 77% of White residents.
• Task ratings for the NOPD remain low – between 12% to 33% – though they show slight improvement. The worst-rated tasks are retention and recruitment of police officers, with positive ratings at just 11% and 12% respectively.

Says pollster Ron Faucheux: “While most residents believe the NOPD is doing an increasingly good job given the circumstances, they see room for improving specific tasks they perform – and much of that improvement will require additional manpower and better use of technology.”

The New Orleans Crime Coalition is a group of organizations – including the Business Council of New Orleans and the River Region, Crimestoppers, the Metropolitan Crime Commission, the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation and the NOLA Coalition – committed to addressing crime, improving public safety, and strengthening civic engagement.

View the Full 2025 NOPD Survey Results Here

The Survey
Since 2009, the NOCC has independently surveyed residents about their views on the NOPD to highlight areas needing improvement, encourage positive reforms within the department, foster trust between the community and law enforcement, and enhance public safety in New Orleans. The 2026 NOPD Citizen Satisfaction Survey was funded by The Greater New Orleans Foundation, GNO, Inc., and the Business Council of New Orleans and the River Region. The survey was carried out by trained professional telephone interviewers under the supervision of Dr. Ron Faucheux. This independent and nonpartisan survey firm operates out of New Orleans and has no affiliations with the City of New Orleans government or the NOPD.

About the New Orleans Crime Coalition
Since its founding in 2007, the organizations of the NOCC have communicated and coordinated in obtaining additional federal funding for local criminal justice agencies; monitoring the expenditure of those funds; seeking improved cooperation between the District Attorney’s office and NOPD; supporting the creation of an independent NOPD monitor; obtaining city funding for the Orleans Public Defenders Office for the first time; promoting the practice of community policing; influencing the public debate on the proper size of the Orleans Parish Prison; and creating one integrated computer-based information management system for the local criminal justice system.

About the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation

The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF) is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making New Orleans a safer place in which to live, work and visit. The Foundation accomplishes its mission by promoting excellence in policing, efficiency in criminal justice and positive community engagement. Programs to enhance NOPD include manpower and advanced training. For more information, please visit: www.nopjf.org or join the NOPJF as they honor local law enforcement at the annual Stake Out for Justice Luncheon on September 10, 2026 at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel.

View the Full 2026 NOPD Survey Results Here

(NEW ORLEANS) – October 30, 2025 – Arnaud’s Restaurant is proud to announce the launch of its 12th annual Teddy Bear Program, beginning Friday, November 21, in partnership with the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF). This beloved holiday tradition encourages guests and community members to donate new teddy bears to help provide comfort to children in need.

From November 21 through December 31, Arnaud’s and collection sites throughout the city will accept donations in designated bins. At the end of the collection period, the teddy bears will be delivered to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) for officers to carry in their vehicles and distribute to children who have experienced trauma, tragedy, or victimization.

To eliminate barriers for those unable to visit a drop-off location, Arnaud’s and NOPJF now offer a secure online donation option. Monetary contributions can be made directly at www.nopjf.org/donate (select Teddy Bear Drive from the drop down menu), allowing supporters near and far to help provide teddy bears and comfort for local children in need.

“We’re honored to continue this beloved tradition with the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation and thrilled to expand the ways our community can participate,” said Arnaud’s co-owner Katy Casbarian. “The Teddy Bear Program has always been about comfort and compassion, and these new elements make it even easier for everyone to get involved.”

Arnaud’s will debut a special teddy bear-themed dessert for the holiday season, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Teddy Bear Program. Guests can indulge in the Black Forest Mille Feuille, featuring chocolate crémeux, tart cherry jam, Luxardo cherries, and puff pastry, while supporting a meaningful initiative that directly benefits children in need across New Orleans.

The Teddy Bear Program continues Arnaud’s longstanding commitment to fostering a compassionate, connected community. Since its inception in 2014, the program has donated more than 11,000 teddy bears. Each bear donated helps remind children facing hardship that New Orleans cares for its own.

“Arnaud’s Teddy Bear Program gives our officers a way to comfort children in their moments of greatest need,” said Melanie Talia, CEO of the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation. “These new opportunities make it even easier for the community to support this effort and help strengthen the bond between our officers and the community they serve.”

Collection bins will be placed at the following locations and accessible during normal hours of operation.

DONATION BINS:
• Energy Centre, 1100 Poydras Street
• New Orleans & Company, 2020 St. Charles Avenue
• NOPJF Headquarters, 320 Metairie-Hammond Highway, Suite 500
• NOPD Headquarters, 1615 Poydras Street

• Arnaud’s Restaurant
813 Bienville Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday – Saturday dinner
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Friday lunch
10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sunday Jazz brunch

For reservations and more information, visit www.arnaudsrestaurant.com.

For images from past Teddy Bear Program donations, click here.

About Arnaud’s
Located steps off Bourbon Street in the heart of the French Quarter, Arnaud’s offers classic Creole cuisine and exemplary service in beautifully restored turn of the century dining rooms. Since its inception in 1918, Arnaud’s has remained true to its traditions and courtesies. Offering live Dixieland Jazz in the Jazz Bistro, romantic dinners in the Main Dining Room, cocktails in the James Beard Award-winning French 75 Bar and an assortment of private dining rooms overlooking the historic French Quarter, Arnaud’s offers the quintessential New Orleans fine dining experience.
For more information, news and updates on Arnaud’s Restaurant, visit www.arnaudsrestaurant.com or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation
Founded in 1995, NOPJF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the New Orleans Police Department by promoting excellence in policing, efficiency in criminal justice and positive community engagement in New Orleans. Today, NOPJF works tirelessly on behalf of the New Orleans Police Department along with community groups, business leaders, criminal justice agencies, and City officials to make New Orleans a safer place in which to live, work and visit.

NOPJF is seeking supporters, like Arnaud’s, to join their partnership for a safer city. To learn more about NOPJF, visit
www.nopjf.org.

Why this program matters

NOEMS currently operates at roughly 70% of full staffing capacity. That staffing gap, combined with the city’s elevated rate of gunshot wounds, traumatic injuries and high-risk scenes, means patrol officers often arrive first – sometimes before EMS can safely enter. The EMR program equips those officers with medically-certified training and the tools to begin lifesaving care in those crucial moments. Thanks to a generous grant from Ochsner Health, 50 automated external defibrillators (AED’s) were also provided to the officers to be used during critical incidents. Police1

What we accomplished in 2024-2025

• 24 NOPD officers enrolled in the EMR certification program (a pilot collaboration with NOEMS).

• Of those, 16 graduated and 8 are on-track to complete certification.

• Each officer received 64 training hours, based on the nationally-recognized National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) and the Louisiana Bureau of EMS (LBEMS) curriculum.

• 25 trauma response kits were assembled and issued to those officers (or those in training). Each kit includes: first aid supplies, trauma dressings, tourniquets, and portable automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

• Data plans were activated for the portable AEDs donated by Ochsner Health, ensuring cardiac emergency care is available even in remote service areas.

• 8 NOPD districts now have at least one EMR-certified officer on at least one shift per day—establishing a foundation for a city-wide deployment strategy of one EMR officer per shift in each district.

• 50 quick-litter emergency transport stretchers have been scheduled for distribution to EMR officers, enhancing extraction and transport in the field.

• 500 mini first aid kits (M-FAKs) were assembled for patrol officers (belt-mounted trauma attachment kits designed for penetrating, blast or traumatic injury care before EMS arrival).

Real-world impact

The program isn’t just about numbers—it’s about lives saved.

• In early 2025, a newly certified EMR officer used their training to save a gunshot victim by applying a chest seal and stabilizing the patient until paramedics arrived.

• Across multiple other incidents involving traffic crashes, domestic violence or self-inflicted wounds, EMR officers rendered immediate care under unsafe conditions – care traditional EMS couldn’t provide until scene security was achieved.

• The program has moved from pilot to permanence: under NOPD leadership, EMR certification is now a formal part of departmental training. (As reported by local media: “The Emergency Medical Responder program (EMR) … which has graduated eight officers in its inaugural class and provides life-saving services for victims who might not otherwise get quick attention from EMS responders due to unsafe scene conditions.”) WDSU

• One of the first programs to publicly document the pairing of police EMT/EMR training and patrol car defibrillators: “Fifty new defibrillator devices to patrol cars … Fifty officers will undergo nine weeks of training to become certified as emergency medical responders… and qualified to use the new defibrillators.” Police1

Strengthened partnerships and recognition

Here’s a breakdown of what the program achieved:

A key moment came when NOEMS, NOPD and Ochsner Health announced a donation of 50 AEDs tied directly to this initiative. WDSU
The collaboration underscores a shift in New Orleans: not just policing, not just EMS – but a united front to save lives sooner.
By equipping officers with medical training and gear, we’re turning first-on-scene into first-care-on-scene.

Challenges and what’s next

No large-scale innovation is without its hurdles. Key areas include:

• Program oversight: currently managed by Sgt. Andrew Packer (an EMT and NOPD supervisor) who also continues his district supervisory duties. Managing a growing EMR program while maintaining platoon responsibilities stretches resources.

• Training capacity: A wait-list has already formed for future EMR classes, requiring expansion of instructor capacity, certification slots and equipment.

• Sustainability and supply chain: Trauma kits, AEDs, M-FAKs and stretchers require ongoing restocking, maintenance, and budgeting.

• Data tracking: While field interventions are recorded, establishing a formal real-time data management system shared between organizations (for tracking incidents, outcomes, equipment usage) remains a priority.

How the Impact 59 Grant fueled the expansion

The Impact 59 grant was a legacy program for Super Bowl LIX that awarded $3.5 million to 65 nonprofit organizations in the Greater New Orleans area. The grants were intended to create a lasting positive impact by funding projects in key areas like youth development, workforce training, education, health and wellness, and equity and inclusion. The program was a collaboration between the Super Bowl LIX Host Committee, Entergy, the NFL Foundation, the New Orleans Saints, Ochsner Health, Venture Global, and United Way of Southeast Louisiana. Thanks to the Impact 59 Grant:

• The EMR program moved from vision to action – open to 24 officers in this period, with 16 graduating, 8 in progress.

• Equipment acquisitions and distributions were funded: trauma kits, portable AEDs, data plans, M-FAKs and transport stretchers all trace back to grant-supported investment.

• One EMR officer pursued and achieved EMT certification – deepening the Department’s medical capacity.

• In short: Impact 59 accelerated training, expanded resources, and strengthened community safety in measurable ways.

Moving forward—beyond the grant

While the grant provided the jump-start, sustainability is already in motion:

• NOPD and NOEMS are incorporating some elements of EMR training, deployment, and equipment into their operational budgets.

• NOPJF continues to pursue private philanthropy, partnership grants and corporate support to maintain and expand the program – especially in high-priority, underserved neighborhoods.

• The goal remains: one EMR-certified officer every shift, every district.

Why this matters for New Orleans

In a city that faces unique challenges – the high rate of violent injury, trauma scenes, resource limitations – training police officers to act as emergency medical responders is a smart, proven strategy. It means that when a call comes in, no one must wait for the “code 4” or the ambulance to be cleared for entry. An EMR-officer is already there – trained, equipped and ready.

This is public safety reinvented: speed, skill, equipment, collaboration.

We are proud of what we’ve achieved so far: 24 officers trained or training, 500 belt-mounted kits assembled, 25 trauma kits distributed, eight districts covered. But we’re just getting started. With your support, NOPJF, NOEMS, and NOPD will continue to turn seconds into saved lives, and make New Orleans safer for everyone.

Want to support the EMR program or learn more? Visit https://nopjf.org/donate/ or email Matthew@NOPJF.org

OCTOBER 8TH RECOGNIZED AS THIRD ANNUAL NEW ORLEANS LAW ENFORCEMENT DAY

Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser declared the date “Go Blue Day” and encourages citizens and businesses to go “10-8” (in-service) by wearing blue clothing and displaying blue lights.

NEW ORLEANS (October 6, 2025) – The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF) is inviting the citizens of the greater New Orleans region to go blue by wearing blue clothing and displaying blue lights on buildings and homes on Wednesday, October 8th to honor our local law enforcement officers who tirelessly work to keep our community safe. The date is significant in that “10-8” is the police radio code for “in-service.” This year, Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser recognized the date as “Go Blue Day” at the NOPJF’s annual Stake Out for Justice Luncheon on September 4^th with an official observance.

For the third year in a row, the Honorable City Council President JP Morrell introduced a declaration in observance of Go Blue Day in New Orleans which was then signed by all members of the New Orleans City Council. Council President Morrell’s proclamation honors all divisions of local law enforcement, including, but certainly not limited to, police officers, sheriff deputies, harbor, levee, university, railway, and governmental organizations whose sole dedication is public safety. Through this recognition, the NOPJF hopes to boost morale and retention in understaffed departments as well as demonstrate to officers that our citizens have their “six.”

In recognition of the observance, several iconic and historic buildings that make up the New Orleans skyline – including the Crescent City Connection – will be illuminated blue to acknowledge the dedication and sacrifice of our local law enforcement officers. As the centers of so many cultural events, their lights remind the world that New Orleans supports its officers. Iconic locations who have ‘gone blue’ include the Caesars Superdome, Hibernia Tower, and Sheraton New Orleans Hotel.

The NOPJF, whose mission is to make New Orleans a safer place to live, work, and visit, is responsible for numerous programs that daily impact the lives and investigations of our officers. Today, NOPJF is focused on enhancing its core programs including advanced officer training, technology procurement, officer safety and wellness, tuition assistance for higher education, Mardi Gras support, and increasing the effectiveness of units and districts. Units recently impacted in partnership with NOPJF include the Canine Unit for whom the NOPJF facilitates annual certifications through the National Police Canine Association, the Digital Forensics Unit for whom the NOPJF acquires rare or unique hardware, and the District Investigative Units from which the NOPJF sends detectives for specialized training.

“Law enforcement is the heart of a safe and thriving community,” said Melanie Talia, CEO of the NOPJF. “On Go Blue Day, we say thank you to the men and women who choose to serve, protect, and lead with integrity.”

While the focus of this day is the gratitude for current law enforcement officers, we acknowledge those who previously served and especially remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Louisiana has lost 3 officers and 1 canine officer in the line of duty in 2025. Nationally, 70 law enforcement officers have been killed in line of duty incidents with 251 officers shot (*National Fraternal Order of Police). Policing remains one of the most dangerous jobs in the country.

The NOPJF asks that you thank every officer you encounter and display blue lighting on porches, landscaping, garage interiors, windows, businesses, and any way that might illuminate the night of October 8th in blue. The sight of blue lights on a dark night signals to officers, deputies, and all members of law enforcement that they have the support of the community they are sworn to protect. Share your photos on social media using #BlueNOLA

The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF) is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making New Orleans a safer place in which to live, work and visit. The Foundation accomplishes this by promoting excellence in policing, efficiency in criminal justice, and positive community engagement. In 2025, the NOPJF has assisted with the response to the January 1st terror attack, arranged the Teneo risk assessment, and supported advanced training to specialized units such as the NOPD Emergency Medical Responder program. The NOPJF was founded in 1995 by concerned citizens who believed the NOPD needed additional resources to effectively police the city. For more information, please visit: www.nopjf.org

NEW ORLEANS IN BLUE PHOTOS:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1y8HFkZDGf-uXDMels9hq_wrud2xfeFL3?usp=sharing

SHARE SUPPORT:

Using the hashtag #BlueNOLA

2024 GO BLUE DAY OBSERVANCE:

https://nopjf.org/nolaleday2024/

Thank You for Attending the 2025 Stake Out for Justice

NOPJF 2025 BADGE OF HONOR RECIPIENTS:

-NOPD Bomb Squad

• • Officer Jason Samuel
  • Officer Douglas Boudreaux
  • Officer Salvador Castagnetta
  • Officer Cedric Davillier
  • Officer David Desalvo
  • Officer Keith Elsensohn
  • Officer Nicholas Morrell
  • Trooper Barry Domangue

-NOPD Det. Raychel Wiley

-NOPD SPO Mikal Salahuddin

-NOPD Det. Jeraire Bridges

-NOPD SPO Bronson Gettridge

-LSP TFC Nicholas Folse

 

NOPJF 2025 PARTNER OF POLICE RECIPIENTS:

-EMS Capt. Matteo Avocato

-Lamar Advertising VP Bob Lanaux

 

NOPJF 2025 HONORARY CRIMEFIGHTER:

-Gayle Benson

 

The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF) is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making New Orleans a safer place in which to live, work and visit. The Foundation accomplishes this by promoting excellence in policing, efficiency in criminal justice, and positive community engagement. In 2025, the NOPJF has assisted with the response to the January 1st terror attack, arranged the Teneo risk assessment, and supported advanced training to specialized units such as the NOPD Emergency Medical Responder program. The NOPJF was founded in 1995 by concerned citizens who believed the NOPD needed additional resources to effectively police the city. For more information, please visit: www.nopjf.org

Remembering Our 2025 Fallen Heroes

In 2025, Sergeant Caleb Eisworth (Baton Rouge PD), Lieutenant Allen “Noochie” Credeur (Rayne PD), and Sergeant Grant J. Candies (St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office) are three Louisiana fallen officers. Their causes of death were vehicular assault for Eisworth and Candies, and gunfire (inadvertent) for Credeur. K9 Macho (Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office) also died in the line of duty on January 15, 2025, from a heart attack.

Fallen Officers in 2025:

• Sergeant Caleb Eisworth

• • Agency: Baton Rouge Police Department, LA

• • Cause of Death: Vehicular assault

• • Date: August 10, 2025

• Lieutenant Allen “Noochie” Credeur

• • Agency: Rayne Police Department, LA

• • Cause of Death: Gunfire (Inadvertent)

• • Date: May 5, 2025

• Sergeant Grant J. Candies

• • Agency: St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, LA

• • Cause of Death: Vehicular assault

• • Date: March 23, 2025

• K9 Macho

• • Agency: Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, LA

• • Cause of Death: Heart attack

• • Date: January 15, 2025

Hundreds of Lives are Lost Each Year In New Orleans to Overdose

The NOPJF wants to empower you to help save lives. The opioid epidemic has quietly, yet powerfully, crept into our own backyard. In 2023, there were 523 deaths from accidental overdose according to the Coroner – that was more than twice the number of homicides that year. However, first responders saved nearly three times that amount by using Naloxone – commonly known as Narcan – to reverse the effects.

Thanks to the leadership and community outreach by the New Orleans Health Department, 2024 saw a significant decrease in deaths to 293. Today, thanks to their incredible team, we are distributing Narcan to you in hopes that you may help continue that momentum. You’ll find a link to a quick training video below and the 2024 Annual Opioid Report here.

VIDEO: NARCAN Nasal Spray – How to Use

What is naloxone (Narcan*)?

Naloxone is a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose. It is an opioid antagonist. This means that it attaches to opioid receptors and reverses and blocks the effects of other opioids. Naloxone can quickly restore normal breathing to a person if their breathing has slowed or stopped because of an opioid overdose. But, naloxone has no effect on someone who does not have opioids in their system, and it is not a treatment for opioid use disorder. Examples of opioids include heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone (OxyContin^®), hydrocodone (Vicodin^®), codeine, and morphine.

How is naloxone given?

Naloxone should be given to any person who shows signs of an opioid overdose or when an overdose is suspected. Naloxone can be given as a nasal spray or it can be injected into the muscle, under the skin, or into the veins. Steps for responding to an opioid overdose can be found in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration’s (SAMHSA) Opioid Overdose Prevention Toolkit.

Upcoming Dates:

October 8, 2025 – Go Blue for Law Enforcement (“10-8 Day”)

November 24, 2025 – NOPJF and Arnaud’s annual Teddy Bear Drive begins

January 1, 2026 – Adopt-A-Cop Support Initiative begins

June 2, 2026 – Blessing of the Fleet for First Responders

Special Thanks to the Richard C. Colton, Jr., Foundation

The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation is committed to providing local law enforcement every advantage in keeping the public safe – that includes safeguarding the men and women who wear the badge.

Thanks to the support of the Richard C. Colton, Jr., Foundation, the NOPJF team tested the abilities of the Armored Republic A1 plate at the NOPD range in August for possible field use. Utilizing 6 escalating ammunition calibers, the A1 plate passed every test.

VIDEO: View the A1 Body Armor Stress Test

About Armored Republic A1 armor: The A Series steel alloy line is designed for maximum durability and effectiveness against a wide variety of threats. The A1 is distinguished by its ability to consistently stop level III+ threats. Unlike ceramic or polyethylene material, this custom steel alloy blend is able to take several hits from these rounds without fail.

HEADLINES POWERED BY NOPJF PROGRAMS:

• Historic Drop in New Orleans Homicides – Public Safety
• Officer Recovery following Bourbon St. Attack – Officer Advocacy
• Teneo Risk Commissioned for French Quarter Safety  – Policy and Practice
• Adopt-A-Cop Keeps Mardi Gras Running – Officer Advocacy
• French Quarter Sweeps – Public Health
• Blessing of the Fleet for First Responders – Officer Advocacy
• Drone Technology (sUAS) Implementation – Technology and Equipment
• OJC Escape Notifications – Public Safety
• Battling the Opioid Epidemic – Public Health

INTRODUCING THE NOPJF FLAG

As the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation celebrates three decades of law enforcement support, the NOPJF is introducing a new symbol for law enforcement in New Orleans.

Symbolism of the Flag Elements:

The NOPJF flag’s 8 white and blue bars represent the 8 districts of the New Orleans Police Department as well as the thin blue line between order and chaos, while the 16 stars with the star and crescent badge represent the 17 unique wards of New Orleans and the Officers who are also a part of that community. The white canton represents purity, truth, and integrity – core ideals of policing.

In policing, we often focus on mental, emotional, physical, and nutritional wellness – but financial well­being is too often overlooked. Financial stress for first responders is a significant concern. For example, a survey of more than 1,100 first‐responders in Oklahoma found that 60.9 % reported financial stress as a top concern and over 54% requested financial wellness classes.(*Police Chief Magazine)

For NOPD officers, the stakes are the same – and in many ways magnified. The job exposes an officer to high stress, irregular hours, overtime demands, and retirement planning complexity. If financial stress builds, it can affect decision‐making, focus on the job, discipline issues, and even their off-duty life. Agencies may often see productivity and safety risks when personnel are over‐leveraged financially.

NOPJF & Captain Gwen Nolan – Building a Local Solution

Recognizing this challenge, the New Orleans Police Junior Foundation (NOPJF) has for the past five (5) years facilitated a dedicated Career Planning and Financial Wellness class for every NOPD recruit class at the NOPD Academy, under the leadership and support of Captain Gwen Nolan. This consistent commitment means that 500 new officers entered the field with foundational financial‐wellness instruction, tailored to the unique demands of NOPD service.

The key benefits of this local program:

• Integration into the Academy curriculum alongside operational training.
• Real‐world policing context: overtime, shift differentials, pension system, second‐job realities in NOLA.
• Early exposure, as opposed to waiting until financial problems surface.
• Reinforcement of wellness culture at the Department: financial health is part of officer wellness.

What the Training Covers (and Why It’s Important for NOPD)

Based on best practices and veteran recommendations, the training emphasizes:

• Budgeting & cash-flow awareness: With unpredictable overtime and shift schedules, you must be able to plan your personal finances in the short term and long term.
• Managing debt and major life decisions: The article warns about young officers taking on large commitments such as homes, vehicles, loans, etc., without fully accounting for policing realities.
• Retirement/pension planning: In Louisiana especially, knowing how your pension, retirement benefits, and possible second career might interact is critical.
• Building resilience, not just “being well”: Instruction on the difference between being financially well (comfortable now) and financially resilient (able to withstand shocks).
• Stress mitigation links: Financial trouble doesn’t stay in the wallet, it can spill into sleep, focus, decision-making, and family life. By giving officers tools early, we reduce these risks.
• Ongoing versus one‐time training: The article emphasizes that financial literacy isn’t “one and done” – it needs ongoing support.

Why It Matters for NOPD Right Now

• Retention & wellness pressures: As policing in New Orleans evolves, recruiting and retaining quality officers is critical. Officers who feel supported – financially, mentally, physically – are more likely to stay and perform.
• Overtime & second-job culture: In NOPD, many officers rely on overtime or extra duty to meet goals. Without financial planning, this can lead to fatigue, decreased focus, and safety risk.
• Community trust & performance: An officer financially stressed is at higher risk for distractions. By reinforcing financial wellness, we support better on-duty performance, fewer errors, better interactions with the community.
• Preparedness for retirement and second careers: Many NOPD officers will face major transitions – promotions, retirement, shifted assignments. Planning ahead with a foundation improves outcomes.
• Holistic wellness culture: Wellness must be holistic as it focuses on physical, mental, interpersonal, and especially financial health.

Key Updates & Local Notes for NOPD Officers

• Thanks to NOPJF’s five-year partnership embedded in the NOPD Academy, new recruits now enter the field with a baseline understanding of financial wellness that earlier officers may not have had.
• For veteran officers: consider taking advantage of refresher workshops or one‐on‐one sessions – financial wellness isn’t only for new recruits.
• Departments must check in on changes: pension rules, overtime policies, cost‐of‐living adjustments, union contract changes – all affect your financial picture.
• The training emphasizes proactive planning – don’t wait for the crisis. Whether it’s mortgage decisions, major purchases, or debt loads, build in the unique NOPD schedule context.
• Wellness is culture: we encourage supervisors and command staff to reinforce the messaging – financial health is part of being mission-ready.

Call to Action for Every NOPD Officer

• Attend the class (if you haven’t): If you’re a recruit or recently promoted, make sure you engage fully with the NOPJF class facilitated through the Academy.
• Review your personal plan: Take an honest look at your budget, debt, retirement planning, and life decisions. Are they aligned with your policing career’s reality?
• Talk to your supervisor or training officer: Make financial wellness part of your ongoing professional development.
• Encourage your peers: Whether on patrol, specialized unit, or supervisory post – promote the idea that financial wellness is part of overall officer readiness.
• Use available resources: NOPJF and the Academy may offer follow-up or refresher sessions – take advantage.

SEE MORE OF OUR WORK WITH NOPD RECRUITS HERE

YOU MAKE IT POSSIBLE TO SAVE LIVES BY SUPPORTING LAW ENFORCEMENT

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser to Deliver Keynote Address at NOPJF’s 30^th Anniversary Stake Out for Justice Luncheon

NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF) announced today that Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser will serve as the Keynote speaker at the 2025 Stake Out for Justice Luncheon, to be held on Thursday, September 4 at 11:30 a.m. at the Sheraton – New Orleans Hotel. Additionally, New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick will provide updates on the crime reduction strategies that have led to historic decreases, and Louisiana State Police Colonel Robert Hodges will discuss the impact of LSP in New Orleans a full year after establishing Troop NOLA.

Tables and individual seats for the 2025 Stake Out for Justice are available for purchase through NOPJF, https://nopjf.org/events/soj/. Proceeds from the event will support NOPJF’s core initiatives, which include promoting public safety through law enforcement training, technology, and tactics. The lives saved, cases closed, and convictions achieved will be celebrated with an awards ceremony for first responders who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in the last year. Attendees will also have the opportunity to share a table with, and are encouraged to engage with, a first responder.

This year’s luncheon marks “30 Years of Valor,” and arrives at a pivotal moment for public safety in New Orleans, as the city continues to respond to the tragic events of January 1, 2025, and confronts new challenges in law enforcement and community trust. Lt. Governor Nungesser’s longtime advocacy for Louisiana’s communities — particularly his leadership in the face of natural disasters, economic recovery, and cultural preservation — resonates deeply with the NOPJF’s ongoing efforts to rebuild public safety infrastructure and civic confidence in the wake of the New Year’s Day terror attack.

“We are honored to welcome Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser as this year’s Keynote speaker,” said Melanie Talia, President and CEO of NOPJF. “His unwavering commitment to public service and his deep understanding of the unique character of our city and state make him an ideal voice to speak to this moment. We are grateful for his partnership as we work to ensure that New Orleans is not only safer, but stronger and more resilient.”

Each year, the Stake Out for Justice Luncheon brings together civic leaders, business professionals, elected officials, and members of the law enforcement and justice communities to highlight the NOPJF’s mission: promoting excellence in policing, accountability in the criminal justice system, and constructive engagement between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

In celebration of the 30^th anniversary of the NOPJF, the event will be chaired by Ben Dupuy, Gordon H. Kolb, Jr., and Zach Kupperman. The 2025 Stake Out for Justice Luncheon will also spotlight the Foundation’s recent public safety efforts, including a groundbreaking partnership with global advisory firm Teneo and former NYPD Commissioner William J. Bratton. Together, they conducted a comprehensive safety assessment following the New Year’s Day tragedy on Bourbon Street—a devastating attack that took 14 lives and left a lasting scar on the city.

“Lt. Governor Nungesser understands that safety is the cornerstone of prosperity,” Talia added. “We look forward to hearing his perspective as we continue this essential conversation about justice, preparedness, and the future of our city.”

To learn more about how NOPJF initiatives promote public safety through law enforcement support or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.NOPJF.org.

About Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser is an outspoken voice for all of Louisiana and is the 54th Lieutenant Governor. Since taking office in 2016, he and his team have guided the state to record-breaking tourism numbers of 53 million visitors prior to the pandemic, cut wasteful spending, and revitalized the State Park system of which several are self-sustaining and profitable. Under his leadership, the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism has worked non-stop to revive Louisiana’s 4th largest industry – the hospitality industry – welcoming tens of millions of visitors annually to enjoy Louisiana’s variety of cultural experiences, history, music, celebrations, and culinary excellence. In October 2023, Lt. Governor Nungesser was re-elected to a third term and, for the second time, with more votes than any other elected official. He is the longest serving Republican Lieutenant Governor in Louisiana’s history. He truly is a Lieutenant Governor for ALL of Louisiana.

The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF) is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making New Orleans a safer place in which to live, work, and visit. The Foundation accomplishes this by promoting excellence in policing, efficiency in criminal justice, and positive community engagement. The NOPJF was founded in 1995 by concerned citizens who believed the NOPD needed additional resources to effectively police the city. For more information, please visit: www.nopjf.org