Baton Rouge Police Chief T.J. Morse says crime continues to trend downward in the city as the Baton Rouge Police Department prepares for a busy football season and increased activity downtown.
Speaking with Brian Haldane on Mornings With Brian Haldane, Chief Morse discussed game-day security, police recruiting, officer training and the latest crime statistics.
BRPD Prepares for Football Season
Football season creates additional demands for BRPD as thousands of fans travel to Baton Rouge for LSU and Southern games. Officers provide security and manage traffic around Tiger Stadium, Southern University and surrounding areas.
Morse said officers also maintain a visible presence after games as fans move into Tigerland, downtown Baton Rouge and other entertainment districts.
With more visitors expected throughout the season, Morrison encouraged fans to plan ahead when drinking and avoid impaired driving. He recommended designated drivers and rideshare services as simple ways to prevent potentially life-changing crashes.
New Downtown Police Facility Planned
BRPD also plans to increase its presence downtown. Morrison said the department is exploring a new district facility near its existing downtown operations.
The proposed building would house the Second District on the ground floor, while the second floor could serve as an operations center for festivals, parades and other large events.
Morrison said the facility would improve the department’s ability to coordinate public safety while maintaining patrols throughout the district.
Crime and Recruiting Show Positive Trends
Morrison reported that overall crime has fallen 11% year to date compared with the same period last year. Armed robberies are down 18%, burglaries have declined 13%, and homicides are down 4%.
At the same time, BRPD has seen a significant increase in police applications. Morrison said the department remains focused on hiring qualified candidates rather than simply increasing academy class sizes.
The department also continues to invest in training, including virtual reality technology designed to create more realistic scenarios for officers.
Morrison said the combination of recruitment, training, community programs and police work has contributed to Baton Rouge’s continued decline in crime.