Nola Reporter

NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans today announced the return of Operation Mardi Gras, organized by the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), New Orleans Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (NOHSEP), Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO), Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, New Orleans Family Justice Center (NOFJC), Silence is Violence, Sexual Trauma Awareness & Response and other partners, to provide victim services during the 2024 Mardi Gras season.  

“I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to our public safety team and victim services and care providers for once again collaborating on this great initiative that truly meets our people where they are, especially in a time of need,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “The City and all our partners have been preparing for months to host a safe and successful Mardi Gras this year, but it is always prudent to have these resources in place in case the need arises. I encourage all those attending Carnival festivities to stay aware of your surroundings, and if you see something, please say something. It takes all of us working together to keep this season safe and fun.” 

Managed by local victim service providers, Operation Mardi Gras provides a safe, central location for any victim or survivor of a violent crime to meet directly with a service provider and gain access to immediate support and resources available. The programming will be available during the two major Mardi Gras parade weekends. 

“The New Orleans Police Department, along with our law enforcement partners, are prepared to ensure that our citizens and visitors have a safe and enjoyable Mardi Gras” said NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick. “Our global reputation in crowd control will once again be on display this year. We will be all-hands-on-deck as the parades roll and our presence will be felt in every part of the city. And, while we want our residents and visitors alike to celebrate and enjoy the festivities, we want everyone to do so responsibly and safely. Help us ensure this Mardi Gras season is the best and safest one yet.” 

"I commend the collaborative efforts of Operation Mardi Gras, bringing together various public safety entities and victim service providers to ensure the well-being of our community during the vibrant Mardi Gras season,” said Criminal Justice Commissioner Tenisha Stevens. “This initiative reflects our commitment to addressing the needs of victims and survivors, providing them with a dedicated space for immediate support and access to essential resources. By fostering a safe and centralized hub, we continue to reinforce the message that the City of New Orleans prioritizes the safety and care of its residents and visitors alike."   

The Operation Mardi Gras Hub is located at the New Orleans Family Justice Center at 701 Loyola Ave. and will have the following operating times: 

• Friday, Feb. 2 from 6 p.m. to Saturday, Feb. 3 at 1 a.m. 
• Saturday, Feb. 3 from 4 p.m. to Sunday, Feb. 4 at 6 a.m. 
• Sunday, Feb. 4 from 4 p.m. to Monday, Feb. 5 at 6 a.m. 
• Thursday, Feb. 8 from 6 p.m. to Friday, Feb. 9 at 1 a.m. 
• Friday, Feb. 9 from 6 p.m. to Saturday, Feb. 10 at 1 a.m. 
• Saturday, Feb. 10 from 4 p.m. to Sunday, Feb. 11 at 6 a.m. 
• Sunday, Feb. 11 from 4 p.m. to Monday, Feb. 12 at 6 a.m. 
• Monday, Feb. 12 (Lundi Gras) from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 
• Tuesday, Feb. 13 (Mardi Gras Day) from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“The New Orleans Family Justice Center is honored to host Operation Mardi Gras for the second year,” said NOFJC Executive Director Dr. Trashanda Grayes. “While our hope is that everyone has a fulfilled, safe experience this Carnival season, we know that this isn’t always the case. The hub provides a safe space for any victim/survivor of a violent crime during the Carnival weekends to meet directly with a service provider and get access to immediate support and resources available to them through the individual agencies. The New Orleans Family Justice Center serves survivors of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking and Human Trafficking. Of course, we hope that no one will become a victim this Carnival season, but if needed, we are here to assist and provide support along with our partners to ensure survivors’ needs are met.”   

Any person who becomes a victim of a crime should first call 9-1-1- to report the crime to police. They are then encouraged to call or visit the Operation Mardi Gras central hub to gain immediate support. Victims or survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, homicide (immediate family member), human trafficking, shooting or carjacking are encouraged to reach out for support. Providers can be reached directly by calling (504) 355-0846 or a 24-hour helpline at 504-866-9554.

Original source can be found here.