NOPD officers arrested two men today (Nov. 30) after they were part of a group that allegedly fired gunshots at officers near the intersection of Annette and Law streets.
At about 12:30 p.m., officers with NOPD’s TIGER (Tactical Intelligence Gathering and Enforcement Response) Unit were in the area on proactive patrol when they noticed a white Ford Expedition SUV driving erratically along Annette Street. The officers followed the vehicle to the intersection of Annette and Law, where the vehicle pulled off to the side of the road. As the officers approached in their vehicle, at least three suspects exited the SUV and at least one of them fired gunshots at the officers before running off. No officers were injured in the incident, and no officers returned fire.
Officers immediately set up a perimeter in the area with assistance from the Louisiana State Police, in search of the suspects. Their efforts led to the discovery and arrest of two of the suspects. Officers also recovered a handgun during their search.
Arrested in the incident were Keith Craig (DOB 10-14-1972) and Harold Mitchell (10-08-1074). Charges against the two are pending.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing.
This is the second time in the past 24 hours that a wanted suspects has opened fire on NOPD officers. Officers arrested Dequest McDowell (DOB: 11/23/1996) Tuesday night after he fired gunshots at police officers during a chase. No officers were injured in the gunfire and McDowell was arrested without incident.
Superintendent Michael Harrison said the aggressive police work is an example of the proactive and intelligence-led policing that the NOPD is leading across the city.
“Our message is clear. If you decide that you’re going to commit acts of violence, we will catch you, we will hold you accountable and we will see to it that justice is served,” Harrison said. “We cannot be deterred.”
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Fifth District officers at 504-658-6050. Citizens with information that can help solve crimes are asked to call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.