NEW ORLEANS, LA - Councilmember Lesli Harris today applauded the federal court’s decision to move the New Orleans Police Department out of the longstanding consent decree, marking a historic turning point for public safety and police reform in New Orleans.

Harris thanked Judge Susie Morgan, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the federal monitoring team for their leadership and years of partnership, which helped guide the department through one of the most significant reform efforts in the country.

She also expressed deep appreciation to every NOPD Superintendent and Chief who led the department throughout the consent decree process, each of whom played a critical role in modernizing the department, improving training and accountability, and moving NOPD toward full compliance.

“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all the chiefs who guided NOPD during this period, ” said Councilmember Harris. “Their service and leadership ensured that reforms took hold, culture shifted, and progress continued even in the most challenging moments.”

Councilmember Harris also praised current Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick, whose experience and commitment to accountability will be essential as the department enters a new phase without federal oversight.

“I am excited to continue working with Superintendent Kirkpatrick to build on all of this progress,,” Harris added. “Her vision for a modern, community-centered police department will help ensure we maintain and deepen the reforms that got us here.”

Harris reaffirmed that the City Council remains committed to supporting NOPD with the resources, oversight, and policy tools needed to sustain constitutional policing and strengthen public safety across New Orleans.

“This is an important moment for our city,” she said. “We honor the work that brought us here, and we remain focused on the work ahead, to keep every neighborhood safe and continue building an NOPD that reflects our values and earns our trust.”