Today (February 10, 2025), NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick met with members of the media to provide updates on the previously paused promotion process, as well as on the successes the department achieved during operations regarding Super Bowl LIX.
Update on NOPD promotions process
On Friday, February 7th, U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan issued an order affirming the integrity of the NOPD’s promotional examination process. With this, Kirkpatrick said, the promotions process will move forward.
“After thorough investigations into concerns about potential biases and allegations of cheating, the findings are clear—there was biases or misconduct,” Kirkpatrick said. The Office of Inspector General determined the cheating allegations were unfounded, and the Court found no evidence of bias on the part of our Deputy Chiefs. In fact, Judge Morgan commended them for their leadership.”
From the beginning of this promotions process, Kirkpatrick said, her commitment has been to be fair, transparent, and ensuring that every officer in this department has a just and equitable pathway to advancement.
“The Court’s ruling confirms that the original eligibility list remains valid, and I will move forward with making promotions very soon,” she said. “I want to recognize the officers who have worked tirelessly to earn their place on this list. They have demonstrated their commitment to serving this city with professionalism, integrity, and leadership. These promotions will not only strengthen our department but also enhance our ability to serve and protect the people of New Orleans.”
Kirkpatrick also wanted to assure NOPD officers and the community that the department’s promotional process will always be rooted in fairness and integrity.
“As superintendent, I will continue to ensure that every decision we make aligns with our mission to build trust, uphold the highest standards, and create a stronger, more effective NOPD,” she said. “We are moving forward, and I am confident that the leaders we promote will help us continue making this department one that our officers and our community can be proud of.”
Update on Super Bowl LIX Security
Regarding Super Bowl security, in addition to congratulating the NFL Champion Philadelphia Eagles on their impressive victory in the Caesars Superdome on September 9, Kirkpatrick also thanked the NOPD’s local, state and federal law enforcement officers for their hard work and dedication throughout the preparation leading up to and through the Super Bowl game.
“We thank our partners for their unwavering support in making this a safe and successful event,” Kirkpatrick said. “With over 2,900 law enforcement officers – both uniformed and undercover – deployed across the city, a strong and visible ‘sea of blue’ provided a secure environment for all residents and visitors. Thanks to the dedication and coordination of our partner agencies, we upheld the highest standards of public safety while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable Super Bowl experience.”
Kirkpatrick stated that it was a priority to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone attending the historic event.
“The success of Super Bowl LIX is a testament to the outstanding teamwork, planning, and execution by all agencies involved,” she said. “Despite this large deployment for Super Bowl coverage, NOPD ensured enough officers remained available to respond to calls for service throughout the city, maintaining our commitment to public safety beyond the event.”
For the week of the Super Bowl (February 2-9)- the NOPD arrested people in 13 weapons offenses- 10 of which were the illegal carrying of a firearm. Six of these arrests were in the French Quarter.
In the Eighth District – which comprises most of the Super Bowl activities near the Caesars Superdome, the CBD and the French Quarter – the NOPD responded to a total of seven (7) crimes against persons and 60 property crimes. Of those, 40 incidents were theft incidents.
This year’s Super Bowl also underscored the importance of New Orleans’ elevated status as a Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) 1 city, a designation championed by Mayor LaToya Cantrell. This federal classification, the highest for special events, strengthens security resources and will enhance safety measures for future large-scale events, including Mardi Gras.
“I want to also extend our gratitude to Governor Jeff Landry for his leadership and for deploying the Louisiana National Guard as another crucial layer of security, further reinforcing our ability to keep the city safe,” Kirkpatrick said.
The NOPD remains committed to ensuring that New Orleans continues to be a premier destination for major events while prioritizing the safety and well-being of all.
Have a question or correction? Please email NOPD’s Public Affairs Division at nopdpio@nola.gov.