Louisiana Governor Requests 1,000 National Guard Troops to Tackle Soaring Crime

As violent crime surges to crisis levels across Louisiana, Republican Governor Jeff Landry is taking bold action formally requesting the deployment of up to 1,000 National Guard troops to restore order and help overwhelmed law enforcement agencies.

Appearing on Hannity Monday night, Landry confirmed that his request for federal assistance (RFA) had been submitted to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth under Title 32 authority. If approved, the troops would be authorized to patrol high-crime areas, assist police, secure infrastructure, and provide logistical and communication support where local agencies are stretched thin.

“We are dealing with a convergence of violent crime, personnel shortages, and natural disaster recovery,” Landry said. “Our local law enforcement officers are heroes, but they’re maxed out. This isn’t about politics it’s about saving lives.”

And the numbers don’t lie:

• In 2024, Louisiana reported 520 violent crimes per 100,000 people, according to USA Facts 44.8% higher than the national average.

• Property crime wasn’t far behind, coming in at 2,296 incidents per 100,000, which is 30.5% higher than the U.S. average.

• Cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport are drowning under a wave of homicides, carjackings, and gang violence.

With police departments already facing manpower shortages due to recruitment issues and disaster-related strain, the addition of National Guard personnel could be a much-needed force multiplier.

Landry’s proposal includes:

• Patrolling violent neighborhoods to increase police presence and deter crime.

• Providing security for critical infrastructure, particularly in hurricane-vulnerable zones.

• Assisting with surveillance, communications, and logistics that municipal departments can no longer fully support.

Earlier this year, Landry highlighted how a National Guard deployment during Mardi Gras helped reduce crime by over 50% during the event proof, he says, that boots on the ground can have an immediate impact.

Of course, not everyone is on board. Predictably, progressive officials in New Orleans and Shreveport are voicing “concerns” over the move even as their cities become more dangerous by the week. But Landry isn’t waiting for permission from woke city councils. He’s going straight to Washington and demanding action.

This is what leadership looks like.

Instead of hiding behind excuses and blaming crime on “systemic issues” or budget shortfalls, Landry is putting safety first something cities like Chicago, San Francisco, and Portland should have done years ago.

Now, the decision rests with Secretary Pete Hegseth, who will determine whether to approve the Guard’s deployment. But for many Louisiana residents who live with the daily threat of violence, the choice is clear.

Protect the people or let the chaos win.

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