Louisiana must address violent crime crisis

Jeff Crouere — Communications Director

The shootings on the LSU campus should serve as a reminder to all Louisiana citizens that our state is facing a violent crime crisis.

One of the shooters was arrested and charged with two attempted first-degree murder counts, illegal use of a weapon, unlawful possession of a weapon by a juvenile, and carrying a firearm on school property. Police confiscated multiple guns at the scene. During the incident, two people opened fire, and two people were wounded, including a bystander.

This type of violence is never acceptable, especially on the LSU campus during a college football game that attracted a massive crowd of fans.

A State at a Crossroads

Our state is at a difficult crossroads; either we deal with the violent crime crisis, or we will continue to suffer an out-migration of law-abiding taxpaying citizens and businesses that offer good-paying jobs. The high rate of violent crime is 45% higher than the national average, and it is a primary reason for the exodus from Louisiana.

If we do nothing, only criminals and poor people who cannot afford to leave will be left in Louisiana.

Calls for Action

According to Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming, M.D.,

“It is time for dramatic action. I urge President Donald Trump to bring in the National Guard to our state’s major cities that are suffering from unacceptable levels of violent crime, specifically Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport.”

The President has successfully curtailed violent crime in Washington, D.C., and Memphis, TN, by ordering National Guard troops to assist local law enforcement.

The National Guard can make a tremendous impact throughout our state by assisting law enforcement agencies that are understaffed in communities with high crime rates.

“We must get serious about dealing with violent crime in Louisiana; otherwise, the negative consequences will be catastrophic for our state,” said Dr. Fleming.