New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick defends overtime, stresses safety

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — A New Orleans Police Department 300 officers short is now set to face some difficult decisions due to the growing $160 million deficit.

Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says at this time she is willing to negotiate on cuts focused on non-essential elements of the department.

“I am here to work in partnership with my city, absolutely in partnership,” Kirkpatrick said.

However, Kirkpatrick has drawn the line, saying a certain amount of overtime is crucial to this department and that she is not willing to sacrifice it if that means compromising the safety of her officers and the residents of New Orleans.

“I’m going to do what I got to do and I will suffer the consequences. That’s called choosing which hill you’re willing to die on. I will die on that hill. Meaning if I’m not the chief for you because of that stance, I’m not the chief for you,” Kirkpatrick said.

Patrick Van Hoorebeek, who owns Bar Vin in the French Quarter, says while the deficit news is concerning, he trusts the NOPD and that he is encouraged by Kirkpatrick’s stance.

“I think we’re on a very good track, and I hope we’re going to keep it that way. Hopefully one day everything’s back to normal again, but I have faith in what the lady said,” Hoorebeek said.

He also says the idea of bringing outside help, such as state police or the national guard, could help alleviate some of the stress of both bar owners and the NOPD themselves.

“I say if they come, that will put less pressure on the NOPD, and then they can focus on the safety of the citizens, and then the feds will do what they have to do to protect the people,” Hoorebeek said.

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