Shreveport, LA – In response to recent late-night tragedies in Downtown Shreveport, the Shreveport Downtown Development Authority (DDA), the Shreveport Police Department (SPD), and Dr. Chelette Holden have come together to implement enhanced safety measures aimed at ensuring the well-being of both residents and visitors.
Through this collaboration, additional police officers will now be stationed in two critical areas of downtown from 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM, a time frame identified as a key period for potential safety concerns. These enhanced patrols are designed to provide increased visibility, deter criminal activity, and offer a greater sense of security for those enjoying downtown’s nightlife.
“We recognize the importance of upholding downtown Shreveport as a safe and welcoming space for everyone,” said Cedric B. Glover, Executive Director of the Shreveport DDA. “This partnership is an important step toward creating an even more secure environment, especially during the hours when the need for additional security is highest.”
Dr. Chelette Holden, an advocate for the downtown community, a downtown business owner, and a DDA board member, has played a pivotal role in supporting this initiative. She has been instrumental in identifying areas of concern and working to develop a proactive response. Demonstrating her unwavering commitment, Dr. Holden went even further by personally contributing financial support to cover the additional costs required to station dedicated officers in these areas.
“As the owner of Haze on Texas, Royalty Cigar and Hookah Lounge, and the G-Spot Daq To Go,” said owner Dr. Chelette Holden, “we are committed to the safety in downtown Shreveport. During the last ten years, we have invested tirelessly in the desire to make downtown fun and safe. We will continue to do so. We look forward to the future. We want downtown Shreveport to look like Times Square. We want it to be a fun and safe place to work, live, and play!”
These new safety measures have already been implemented and have been met with positive feedback from the community. The DDA, SPD, Real Time Crime Center, and Dr. Holden remain committed to continue evaluating and adjusting these safety measures as needed, affirming that ongoing efforts continue to meet the needs of the community.
