A new crackdown gets underway today on squatting in Shreveport with a new ordinance in place and an enforcement measure. In the last year, police have received more than 300 calls regarding squatting. The term refers to the action of occupying an abandoned or unoccupied area of land or a building, usually residential, that the squatter does not own, rent or otherwise have lawful permission to use.
Mayor Tom Arceneaux explained that the crackdown will begin in the Highland neighborhood where nearly 40 percent of the complaints have originated. Crimes linked with these cases include unauthorized entry, burglary, trespassing, property damage, theft, drug activity and even armed threats.
To immediately enforce this new measure, the Shreveport Police Department 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. SPD will launch a public awareness campaign encouraging residents to report squatting locations using Port City 311 online at https://www.shreveportla.gov/2786/Report-A-Concern, or through the Port City 311 phone app, or by calling SPD at (318) 673-6950.
Law enforcement teams will verify reports, identify offenders, educate squatters on the new law and offer resources and alternatives. The department will collaborate with agencies such as Code Enforcement, Animal Control, and local housing organizations to ensure a comprehensive approach to this issue. SPD will deploy patrols to heavily impacted areas, issue citations, execute outstanding warrants, and make arrests where necessary.
