In response to the rising issue of illegal squatting and associated criminal activity in Shreveport, Mayor Tom Arceneaux proposed Ordinance 18 of 2025, which has been approved by the City Council and signed by the mayor. It goes into effect on April 3, 2025.
The ordinance provides law enforcement with additional tools to address unauthorized occupancy and protect property owners and neighborhoods. To immediately enforce this new measure, the Shreveport Police Department (SPD) will launch Operation A.S.K. B.L.U.E. (Addressing Squatters Knowledgeably – Bold Legal Unified Efforts) as part of a citywide crackdown on squatting-related crimes.
“Illegal squatting is not just a property issue—it’s a public safety crisis that has contributed to increased crime, drug activity, and quality-of-life concerns for our residents,” said Mayor Arceneaux. “With this ordinance and SPD’s swift action, we are taking a firm stance against unauthorized occupation and restoring peace and order to our neighborhoods.”
From January 2024 to mid-March 2025, SPD received over 300 calls regarding squatting, with nearly 40% of these incidents occurring in the Highland neighborhood. Documented crimes associated with these cases include unauthorized entry, burglary, trespassing, property damage, theft, drug activity, and even armed threats.
SPD will implement Operation ASK BLUE in three phases:
- Community Engagement: SPD will launch a public awareness campaign encouraging residents to report squatting locations through Port City 311 or by calling SPD at (318) 673-6950.
- Investigation & Enforcement: Law enforcement teams will verify reports, identify offenders, educate squatters on the new law, and offer resources and alternatives.
- Saturation & Arrests: SPD will deploy patrols to heavily impacted areas, issue citations, execute outstanding warrants, and make arrests where necessary.
“This initiative is about restoring safety and accountability,” said Police Chief Wayne Smith. “Our officers will take decisive action to identify and remove squatters while working with property owners, community leaders, and other agencies to ensure a lasting solution. We are committed to making Shreveport a safer place for everyone.”
SPD will initially focus its efforts on the Highland neighborhood before expanding to other affected areas. The department will collaborate with agencies such as Code Enforcement, Animal Control, and local housing organizations to ensure a comprehensive approach to this issue.
Residents are urged to report squatters by calling SPD at (318) 673-6950 or using Port City 311 online at https://www.shreveportla.gov/2786/Report-A-Concern, or by using the Port City 311 phone application.
