Mayor-President Edwards Announces Crime Initiatives to Enhance Public Safety in East Baton Rouge
The key measures unveiled include the rehiring of retired Baton Rouge police officers and an expanded Crime Stoppers reward program. Former Police Chief Jeff LaDuff, who serves on the mayor’s transition team for public safety, outlined the details.
BATON ROUGE, La. – Mayor-President Sid Edwards announced new crime reduction initiatives on Tuesday aimed at improving public safety in East Baton Rouge Parish. Flanked by law enforcement officials and community leaders, Edwards emphasized the urgency of addressing crime and fulfilling his campaign promises.
“Crime in Baton Rouge is an issue we cannot ignore,” Edwards said. “Our team has been working tirelessly to implement strategies that will make our parish safer. These initiatives are just the beginning.”
The key measures unveiled include the rehiring of retired Baton Rouge police officers and an expanded Crime Stoppers reward program. Former Police Chief Jeff LaDuff, who serves on the mayor’s transition team for public safety, outlined the details.
Rehiring Retired Officers
Legislation passed last year under House Bill 15 allows for the rehiring of retired Baton Rouge Police Department officers without affecting their retirement benefits. This initiative will enable officers to return on a part-time basis, working up to 29 hours a week in various support roles.
“These experienced officers will not be answering calls but will fill critical gaps in support services, cold case investigations, and the real-time crime center,” said Baton Rouge Police Chief T.J. Morris. “They will also provide mentorship to younger officers.”
Crime Stoppers ‘First 48 Rewards Boost’
The city is also launching an initiative in partnership with Capital Region Crime Stoppers to increase rewards for information leading to arrests in homicide cases. Crime Stoppers Executive Director Johnny Dunham detailed the program, which will double existing rewards if the information is provided within the first 48 hours of a homicide.
“Crime Stoppers currently offers up to $2,500 for a single homicide case and $5,000 for multiple homicides,” Dunham said. “Under this new program, those amounts will increase to $5,000 and $10,000, respectively, if tips are received within the first 48 hours.”
Dunham emphasized the anonymity of tipsters, assuring the public that Crime Stoppers does not track personal information. He urged residents to use Crime Stoppers' phone line, mobile app, or website to submit tips.
Community Support and Enforcement
Edwards and law enforcement officials stressed the importance of public cooperation in reducing crime. Chief Morris warned that individuals who harbor fugitives instead of reporting them could face prosecution.
“If you’re feeding them, housing them, or giving them a car to use, we will arrest you,” Morris said. “Take advantage of Crime Stoppers instead.”
The mayor acknowledged the efforts of local law enforcement, noting recent quick arrests in homicide cases. He also reaffirmed the city’s commitment to social programs, such as Safe, Hopeful, and Healthy EBR, which remains operational despite rumors to the contrary.
“These initiatives are just one piece of the puzzle,” Edwards said. “We need community involvement to make Baton Rouge safer for our children and families.”
The mayor and law enforcement officials concluded the press conference by urging the public to utilize the increased Crime Stoppers rewards and assist in ongoing crime reduction efforts.
For anonymous tips, residents can contact Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-STOP or submit tips online at www.crimestoppers225.com
