A New Orleans judge has issued an indefinite prohibition against the Louisiana State Police conducting homeless encampment sweeps without providing adequate notice, as required by city law. The ruling by Civil District Court Judge Ethel Julien comes in the form of a preliminary injunction, which will remain in effect as a lawsuit over the issue proceeds through the courts.
The decision follows an earlier temporary restraining order and accusations that state agencies violated constitutional rights during prior sweeps.
Lawsuit Highlights Alleged Constitutional Violations
The lawsuit, filed against the Louisiana State Police, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), alleges that state agencies conducted illegal searches and seizures of property without due process. The complaint specifically accuses Troop NOLA, a unit of state troopers deployed to New Orleans, of violating a city ordinance requiring 24 hours’ advance notice before clearing homeless encampments.
“There are certain constitutional protections that should be in place before these relocations occur,” Judge Julien said during the ruling. While the injunction applies to most state agencies involved, DOTD was excluded as its role was limited to cleanup operations.
Controversial Sweeps Linked to Major Events
The case stems from an October operation led by Troop NOLA to clear homeless encampments in the Central Business District ahead of Taylor Swift concerts at the Superdome. The order for the operation reportedly came from Governor Jeff Landry, despite objections from New Orleans city officials, including Mayor LaToya Cantrell and members of the City Council.
City officials argued the sweeps undermined long-term efforts to secure stable housing for the unhoused population. Unlike a previous state trooper deployment under former Mayor Mitch Landrieu, the Cantrell administration did not formalize an operating agreement with Troop NOLA, limiting the city’s control over the unit’s actions.
Judge: State Actions Cause “Confusion and Chaos”
Judge Julien criticized the state for its inconsistent approach, pointing to affidavits from state officials confirming some actions occurred on city property. Julien dismissed state claims that the sweeps were limited to state-owned roadways and expressed skepticism about arguments that the actions were necessary to keep highways and sidewalks clear.
William Most, lead attorney for the plaintiffs, emphasized the chaos caused by the state’s actions. “They’ve issued flyers, pulled back, and acted inconsistently, creating confusion for residents,” he said.
Eric Foley, another attorney for the plaintiffs, highlighted the lasting impact on unhoused individuals, citing loss of property and essential medications as harms that could lead to broader consequences. “Replacing those items is not as easy for someone living on the streets,” Foley explained.
City Officials Welcome the Decision
City Councilwoman Lesli Harris, whose district includes areas with a high concentration of homeless encampments, praised the ruling as a step toward restoring order. “This decision will stop the chaos caused by state actions and allow us to refocus on connecting unhoused residents with permanent housing and support services,” Harris said.
The state has not indicated whether it plans to appeal the decision, but the preliminary injunction will remain in place while the lawsuit seeks a permanent resolution.
Attorney General Liz Murrill, defending the State Police, stated that her office would work to ensure compliance with the law while addressing public safety concerns.
