What’s New:
This week, KW New Orleans sat down with Daniel Shanks, Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, to dive into how New Orleans is tackling crime with a fresh strategy. Through a partnership-driven, data-centered approach, Shanks and his team are setting new standards for safety and community involvement, creating ripple effects that go beyond city politics and into the lives of everyday residents.
Why It Matters:
Shanks highlights an innovative “risk terrain modeling” program designed to identify crime hot spots and address underlying factors that contribute to criminal activity. With a 50% reduction in homicides over the past two years, the approach seems to be working. His commitment to data, interagency collaboration, and community involvement showcases what can be achieved when government agencies work together.
The Big Picture:
According to Shanks, New Orleans’ recent decline in crime isn’t due to one silver bullet but rather a combination of many small, coordinated efforts across agencies. By fostering a collaborative network of local law enforcement, probation, parole officers, and community leaders, Shanks says, “It’s all about collaboration. We’re seeing a 50% reduction in homicides not because of one thing but because we are breaking down silos and creating a unified front.”
Details:
Shanks detailed the DA’s “place-based” approach to identifying high-crime areas by focusing on environmental and geographic factors, like street lighting and abandoned buildings. Through this lens, the DA’s office partners with local organizations to address the root causes of crime hotspots. A recent example is the 1200 block of North Claiborne, where a tire shop linked to fentanyl distribution was identified as contributing to a significant portion of local violence. Following controlled buys with federal partners, the DA’s office seized the property.
“Our goal,” Shanks explained, “isn’t just to remove criminals; it’s about creating a safer environment. When you have places that are conducive to criminal behavior, more of it is attracted to those areas.”Behind the Scenes:
One of the core strengths of this approach lies in regular weekly meetings that bring law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and federal partners to the table. This transparent forum for communication allows all parties to align on key issues, discuss active cases, and strategize on collaborative interventions. “We’re not just meeting for the sake of meeting,” Shanks said. “Every Tuesday, we’re sitting down with the superintendent, federal partners, probation, and parole to assess each gun crime that week. It’s about real-time solutions.”
By the Numbers:
- From 400 annual unscreened cases in 2022 to zero today—a sign of improved efficiency within the DA’s office.
- 28 times more likely to be a gun violence victim at certain crime hotspots, highlighting the need for strategic, focused interventions.
- 100% reduction in homicides in the Treme neighborhood following targeted interventions, including partnerships with local community groups and increased police visibility.
What’s Next:
The focus remains on expanding these efforts to other parts of New Orleans, with a strong push toward engaging the community. Shanks emphasizes that his office can’t do it alone. “Community engagement is the silver bullet when it comes to reducing crime. After major disasters like Katrina and Ida, we saw neighborhoods come together. We need that same spirit to tackle crime.”
What We’re Watching:
How can KW New Orleans leverage this for agent attraction and community engagement? By leading local real estate conversations, emphasizing the role of safe neighborhoods in property value, and supporting a city committed to improvement, KW New Orleans is well-positioned to attract agents who want to make a difference. As Shanks puts it, “It’s not just about selling houses; it’s about fostering the community where people feel safe and connected.”
The Bottom Line:
Shanks’ innovative and data-driven approach offers a blueprint for tackling crime in urban areas. With results that speak for themselves, the Orleans Parish DA’s office shows that real change is possible when collaboration meets commitment.
If you’re a real estate agent passionate about community and looking to join a brokerage that leads the conversation, KW New Orleans is the place to be. Let’s keep New Orleans thriving—together.
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