New Orleans Seeks NYC Expertise After Bourbon Street Massacre

Following a deadly New Year's Day attack on Bourbon Street, New Orleans is turning to former NYC Police Chief William Bratton for security expertise. Bratton's review, funded privately, will assess security vulnerabilities and make recommendations for future events like Mardi Gras and French Quarter Fest.

<img src="https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/nola.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/6/27/62777938-ce19-11ef-ad51-13e0b38b9466/677f0bfd5038f.image.jpg?resize=731%2C500" alt="NYC Police Commissioner">

Bratton's Role and Past Experience

Bratton, known for his work on counter-terrorism and implementing the "broken windows" policing strategy in NYC and Los Angeles, is expected to develop a long-term security plan for the city. His involvement follows a previous, secretive, NYPD consulting effort in 2022.

<img src="https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/nola.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/3e/93eb6e8e-ae69-55c1-8ce2-e69c6e581f23/677f0ac45da6d.image.jpg?resize=1396%2C931" alt="New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick">

Criticism and Concerns

Some criticize the decision to hire an outsider, questioning Bratton's familiarity with New Orleans' unique culture and events. Retired officer Melvin Howard highlights potential conflicts with established local event security procedures.

<img src="https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/nola.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/b0/8b03b153-4b12-5abe-be33-5e9acf04fd7f/6775d613bd271.image.jpg?resize=1396%2C941" alt="Bourbon Street attack investigation">

Focus on Infrastructure and Long-Term Strategy

Security experts have also raised concerns about inadequate barriers and the low crash test ratings of newly installed bollards. Bratton's review will likely address these issues and create a comprehensive plan to prevent future incidents.

<img src="https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/nola.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/32/e3265720-c892-11ef-9347-7f44360d5ddf/6775c7143ded7.image.jpg" alt="Shamsud-Din Jabbar">

Transparency and Council Involvement

New Orleans City Council President Helena Moreno emphasized the importance of transparency and promised increased council involvement in the security review compared to previous secretive efforts.