02-04-2025
Squatting ordinance, enforcement, and reporting concerns to Shreveport police
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Squatting has become an issue for many communities in Shreveport. On Wednesday morning, Mayor Tom Arceneaux and Chief of Police Wayne Smith announced a new initiative to enforce the city's new anti-squatting ordinance.
'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.'
Ordinance 18 was proposed by the mayor and approved by the Shreveport City Council and will go into effect on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The companion piece to this legislation is the SPD initiative A.S.K. B.L.U.E. (Addressing Squatters Knowledgeably – Bold Legal Unified Efforts).
Shreveport residents can report community concerns on Port City 311
A news release from the mayor's office said that from January 2024 until mid-March 2025, SPD received over 300 calls related to squatting, and nearly 40% of those calls came from residents of the Highland neighborhood. Police say documented crimes related to squatting include unauthorized entry, burglary, trespassing, property damage, theft, drug activity, and even armed threats.
The ordinance will provide SPD with tools to address unauthorized occupancy and protect communities and property.
Operation ASK BLUE will be rolled out by Shreveport police in three phases:
Phase 1: Community engagement: SPD will launch a public awareness campaign encouraging residents to report squatting locations through Port City 311 or call SPD at 318-673-6950.
Phase 2: Investigation & enforcement: Law enforcement teams will verify reports, identify offenders, educate squatters on the new law, and offer resources and alternatives.
Phase 3. Saturation and 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.'
Initial efforts will be focused on the Highland community before expanding to other affected areas of the city. SPD will collaborate with agencies, including Code Enforcement, Animal Control, and local housing organizations, to ensure a comprehensive approach to this issue.
Residents are urged to report squatters by calling Shreveport police at 318-673-6950 or using Port City 311 online or downloading the Port City 311 mobile app.
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