The Mayor of Shreveport has declared a State of Emergency following concerning property conditions at Linwood Homes apartments. The declaration is effective from 1 p.m. on Thursday and will last until July 26, unless extended. According to a news release from Mayor Tom Arceneaux’s Office, the declaration was necessary due to the hazardous situation at the complex. Squatters, scavengers, and vandals have already begun to occupy and damage the property.
Arceneaux cited several reasons for the Declaration, including the fact that the property is unsafe to occupy due to the lack of running water and functioning toilets. The accumulation of trash from squatters, as well as from the departure of the last residents, poses a risk to public health. Additionally, the property is vulnerable to fires set by squatters and scavengers. Recently, a two-alarm fire at Linwood Homes required thirty-two firefighters and thirteen units to control, resulting in an injury to one firefighter.
The proximity of the complex to nearby residential and commercial areas raises concerns for both safety and health. The declaration grants the Shreveport Police Department the authority to remove and potentially arrest anyone found occupying an apartment unit, camping on the property, or scavenging items. It also authorizes Public Works and Property Standards to address health and safety hazards and remove any illegally dumped trash. City departments are authorized to take action to prevent or eliminate hazardous conditions affecting public safety and health.
Signs will be posted at entrances to the complex warning that entry is forbidden, and presence may result in arrest. The Shreveport PD will enforce the ban by conducting periodic sweeps of the property. For updates, follow Ian Robinson on Twitter @_irobinson and on Facebook at https://bit.ly/3vln0w1.