The Real News Louisiana

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MAYOR ARCENEAUX AND POLICE CHIEF SMITH ANNOUNCE CRACKDOWN ON
SQUATTING WITH NEW ORDINANCE AND ENFORCEMENT INITIATIVE
In response to the rising issue of illegal squatting and associated criminal activity in Shreveport,
Mayor Tom Arceneaux proposed Ordinance 18 of 2025, which has been approved by the City
Council and signed by the mayor. It goes into effect on April 3, 2025. The ordinance provides
law enforcement with additional tools to address unauthorized occupancy and protect property
owners and neighborhoods. To immediately enforce this new measure, the Shreveport Police
Department (SPD) will launch Operation A.S.K. B.L.U.E. (Addressing Squatters Knowledgeably
– Bold Legal Unified Efforts) as part of a citywide crackdown on squatting-related crimes.
“Illegal squatting is not just a property issue—it’s a public safety crisis that has contributed to
increased crime, drug activity, and quality-of-life concerns for our residents,” said Mayor
Arceneaux. “With this ordinance and SPD’s swift action, we are taking a firm stance against
unauthorized occupation and restoring peace and order to our neighborhoods.”
From January 2024 to mid-March 2025, SPD received over 300 calls regarding squatting, with
nearly 40% of these incidents occurring in the Highland neighborhood. Documented crimes
associated with these cases include unauthorized entry, burglary, trespassing, property
damage, theft, drug activity, and even armed threats.
SPD will implement Operation ASK BLUE in three phases:

1. Community Engagement: SPD will launch a public awareness campaign encouraging
   residents to report squatting locations through Port City 311 or by calling SPD at (318)
   673-6950.

2. Investigation & Enforcement: Law enforcement teams will verify reports, identify
   offenders, educate squatters on the new law, and offer resources and alternatives.
3. Saturation & Arrests: SPD will deploy patrols to heavily impacted areas, issue citations,
   execute outstanding warrants, and make arrests where necessary.
   “This initiative is about restoring safety and accountability,” said Police Chief Wayne Smith. “Our
   officers will take decisive action to identify and remove squatters while working with property
   owners, community leaders, and other agencies to ensure a lasting solution. We are committed
   to making Shreveport a safer place for everyone.”
   SPD will initially focus its efforts on the Highland neighborhood before expanding to other
   affected areas. The department will collaborate with agencies such as Code Enforcement,
   Animal Control, and local housing organizations to ensure a comprehensive approach to this
   issue.
   Residents are urged to report squatters by calling SPD at (318) 673-6950 or using Port City 311
   online at https://www.shreveportla.gov/2786/Report-A-Concern, or by using the Port City 311
   phone application.