Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins is to be commended for launching a new initiative to assist Shreveport citizens and the Shreveport Police Department (SPC).
The new WEHEARYOUSHREVEPORT.COM website is a prompt and bold response to growing citizens concerns over policing tactics of SPD and to provide much needed information to the general public.
The website announces includes the announcement of amended SPD policies on use of force and additional training. It also addresses racial profiling and body cams.
The website also answers many questions raised by citizens groups that are not issues that can be addressed by the Perkins and the city of Shreveport. These include a citizen review board, legal representation and prosecution of criminal defendants and prison fund allocations.
The newly formed Shreveport Race Commission is to review the SPD use of force policies, participate in the citizens training academy and provide feedback tot he Perkins administration.
Perkins emphasized that “citizens can’t feel safe if they don’t trust police officers. We have to do a better job of building trust and relationships between law enforcement and the citizens they serve.”
SPD Chief Ben Raymond added that “we work for the citizens of Shreveport and welcome input to help us improve our level of service.”
The website lists the Shreveport Race Commission, North Louisiana Interfaith, NAACP, YWCA, We The People and Shreveport Young Adult Action Committee (SYAAC).
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.