Haven’t these people been through enough?

The people of New Orleans have mixed feelings about the impending pullout of Guardsmen. Many say, with having a severely undermanned police force, they’ve armed themselves and are prepared for whatever lies ahead. Others don’t quite have that “Dirty Harry” disposition, and are very worried.

With murders down from 210 in 2007 to 179 the following year, there’s no doubt that the Guard has been of great help. But the biggest benefit of having them around came from reducing theft crimes. I guess we’ll have to wait and see if the people of NO can make it on there own – again.

Guard to pull out of New Orleans after 3 1/2 years

NEW ORLEANS – Three and a half years after Hurricane Katrina, the National Guard is pulling the last of its troops out of New Orleans this weekend, leaving behind a city still desperate and dangerous. Residents long distrustful of the city’s police force are worried they will have to fend for themselves.

“I don’t know if crime will go up after these guys leave. But I know a lot more of us will be packing our own pieces now to make sure we’re protected,” said Calvin Stewart, owner of a restaurant and store.

New Orleans Police Superintendent Warren Riley said his rebuilt police department is up to the job of protecting the city. “I think we’re ready to handle things,” he said. [...]

With Louisiana facing a $341 million budget deficit, state lawmakers were reluctant to keep the Guard in place any longer. [...]

“I don’t think the city is ready for us to leave,” said Lt. Ronald Brown, who has been part of Task Force Gator since April 2007. “I’d like to see us stay. I think we make a difference, but I guess it’s a money thing.”

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