A Louisiana judge has temporarily blocked Gov. Jeff Landry’s efforts to clear homeless encampments in New Orleans after relocating around 75 people living in tents near the Superdome, where Taylor Swift was performing over the weekend. The judge granted a temporary restraining order until Nov. 4, directing state law enforcement officials not to destroy or dispose of the property of homeless individuals without judicial process and to notify people in state-sanctioned camps that they are free to leave.
During the sweep, some homeless individuals claimed that state troopers violated their constitutional rights by illegally searching, seizing, and destroying their property, as well as forcibly relocating them. One observer reported hearing state troopers tell the homeless that they needed to move because of the Taylor Swift concert. The lawsuit filed argued against the displacement and destruction of personal belongings, claiming it was a violation of their rights.
Landry’s decision to relocate the homeless individuals was said to be in preparation for the Taylor Swift concerts and the upcoming Super Bowl in February. His spokeswoman, Kate Kelly, stated that the move was aimed at addressing homelessness and safety issues to ensure New Orleans presents itself positively when hosting such events on a global stage. However, officials in New Orleans criticized the sweep, claiming it would disrupt efforts to find long-term, permanent housing solutions for those affected.
State troopers and Department of Wildlife and Fisheries officers were used by Landry to relocate the homeless individuals, with reports of personal belongings being disposed of and individuals forcibly moved. The homeless camp on Calliope Street under the Pontchartrain Expressway was targeted for relocation, with individuals relocated to a state-sanctioned camp two blocks away. The swift action by Landry was seen as an attempt to improve safety and address homelessness in preparation for high-profile events.
The temporary restraining order granted by Judge Lori Jupiter is in effect until Nov. 4, preventing state law enforcement officials from destroying or disposing of homeless individuals’ property without judicial process. The order also requires officials to inform those in state-sanctioned camps that they are free to leave. The lawsuit filed by some of the displaced individuals highlights the importance of protecting the constitutional rights of homeless individuals and ensuring fair treatment during such sweeps. The decision to block further encampment clearings reflects a concern for upholding the rights of homeless individuals in the face of large-scale events.
