(The Center Square) – Since the ASK BLUE initiative began in April, the Shreveport Police Department has arrested 64 offenders for squatting throughout the city.
According to Police Chief Wayne Smith, of the 64 total arrests for squatting, two were made in North Shreveport, 32 in the Highland area, 21 in West Shreveport, and nine in South Shreveport.
“As a result, I believe, of our efforts, our call and demand for services where people report such activities had declined by 15% since that ordinance went into effect,” said Smith.
Of the 64 arrests made, 61 have been closed, and only three remain outstanding with bench warrants.
The last squatter arrest update was at the end of May during a Public Safety Committee meeting. The department reported 20 arrests since the start of April and 17 convictions.
Shreveport officials and residents have discussed the issues of squatters numerous times. Several incidents have happened in the Highland area. The ASK BLUE is an acronym for Addressing Squatters Knowledgably with Bold Legal Unified Efforts.
Other updates in the report include personnel relocation from the 1234 Texas Street police station. As of now, roughly 490 have been relocated and 90 remain there. The department relocated people to a temporary station. Administration and part of their team are still operating from the Texas Street location.
The North Shreveport substation grand opening just passed, and progress continues on the other substation locations. Previously, Cpl. Chris Bordelon told The Center Square the department would like to have these projects completed by the first quarter of 2026.
A ribbon-cutting and dedication of a new command vehicle will take place once the North Market substation is completed. Smith said the command vehicle was purchased during the bond issue.
