Shreveport Police Department Releases New Crime and Traffic Data

Crime numbers in Shreveport continue to show improvement in reducing violent crimes. But some stats are showing an increase. Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith presented the latest data to the Shreveport City Council this week and he waves a red flag about traffic fatalities and crashes. The Chief also has concerns about the DWI numbers in the city.

Traffic Fatalities in Shreveport Are Up Dramatically

The latest report shows Shreveport has recorded 31 traffic deaths so far this year. This marks a 29% increase compared to last year for the same period of time when the city recorded 24 traffic deaths. One of the big problems is pedestrian traffic near the roadways. This is one of the leading factors when you look at traffic fatalities.

Impairment is also a major concern. At least 10 of the fatalities can be connected to a driver under influence of drugs or alcohol. Chief Smith urgers drivers to be extra cautious behind the wheel and keep distractions to a minimum.

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Shreveport Officers Seize Hundreds of Guns

Shreveport police officers have seized more than 560 guns so far this year. These are guns that were in the hands of felons who are not allowed to legally have guns.

The latest data show officers reported 62 incidents involving firearms confiscated during drug arrests. Police also intercepted 31 stolen firearms and responded to 28 aggravated assaults involving a firearm. There were also more than 20 cases of juveniles carrying weapons.

Photo Credit: Shreveport Police Department

Police Staffing in Shreveport Is Still a Big Concern

The council is also taking a close look at police staffing. Shreveport is down by about 170 officers and more than 20 officers are on some sort of leave. This causes the department to be stretched very thin during many hours of the day.