Agencies Working Together to Increase Security for Mardi Gras

• By Sydny Shepard
• Feb 08, 2016

With thousands of people pouring into New Orleans for Mardi Gras, security is beefing up from the Port of New Orleans to the French Quarter and even parade routes. Local, state and federal officials says public safety remains the priority. Some in Louisiana are saying this is the most security at Mardi Gras since 9/11.

The first line of defense for Mardi Gras, which is usually celebrated from mid-January through early-February, is Customs and Border Protection Agents along with the U.S. Coast Guard who carefully inspect imported good for the sake of the celebrations. Beads, merchandise and float materials are carefully inspected upon arrival and prohibited items are confiscated.

Police barricades are in place to keep mobile transportation away from crowds of people enjoying the parades. This year, certain sections of the parade routes have been designated as “no throw zones” because of congestion and safety concerns.

Officials said the city's police force of more than 1,100 officers will be bolstered by 170 state troopers, 100 FBI agents and dozens of officers from nearby law enforcement agencies.

Those officers will be placed along parade routes and patrolling through neighborhoods. Along with their weapons, police will be wearing body cameras.

State police will also continue to check-in with the FBI and other agencies to make sure New Orleans and the State aren’t facing any possible security threats during the festivities.