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NEW ORLEANS – A shrunken police force is fighting a rise in violent crime in New Orleans. Now the focus is on tourist districts after a rash of attacks there.
French Quarter residents are fearful that Mardi Gras may be marred again by violence and they’ve posted signs on balconies, doors and in windows advising people to “walk in large groups.”
Since November, the historic area has been the scene of some 60 robberies — many of them violent.
At least eight out of the past 11 Carnival festivities have seen shootings take place at parade routes, in clubs or on Bourbon Street. At least 27 people were injured in those shootings and one killed.
Anger over the recent attacks has stung Mayor Mitch Landrieu. He’s promising to make Carnival safe.
