It’s hard to believe that 2024 is already coming to a close. This year has been full of forward momentum for Harbor Police Department as we have pushed ourselves to be the best in everything we do. I personally challenged the team to go above and beyond in the ways in which we exemplify our motto – honor, pride, and dedication – and they did not disappoint. I am so proud of the work that we have accomplished this year and look forward to continuing this energy into the new year.

2024 was a year of firsts for the department. The team hosted our inaugural Night Out Against Crime which brought together members of the port community to celebrate the important role law enforcement plays at the Port of New Orleans. We also worked to build stronger relationships with Port of New Orleans and New Orleans Public Belt employees by hosting our first Coffee with a Cop. Employees were introduced to all of the things that HPD does in keeping the gateway safe while meeting our officers - veterans and rookies. HPD unveiled an Honor Guard unit which presented the colors at the 2024 State of the Port and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) conference in New Orleans.

One of our greatest successes of the year was Operation Clean House. HPD joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the State of Louisiana and officials from 18 local law enforcement agencies in Operation Clean House which resulted in 155 arrests in metro New Orleans. HPD’s participation in this operation showcases our commitment to working with partner agencies to keep our community and citizens safe.

I am proud of the strides our officers have made within their respective careers. This year we recruited five full time officers and eight reserve officers to join our ranks. I was immensely honored to promote three veteran officers to the rank of Lieutenant in August. Lt. Clark, Brito, and Cummings are invaluable assets to our department who continuously strive to make the team stronger.

There is no more dedicated group of personnel than our very own Harbor Police Department. Their ongoing commitment to safeguard our port operations and the people who depend on them is unmatched. Our officers truly demonstrated their pledge to serving the community through various outreach efforts this year. We partnered with We Work the Waterways and Junior Achievement to meet the next generation in the classroom as they plan for their futures. Every opportunity to engage with our community is a success for our officers and the department.

In every measure, HPD stands as a cornerstone of safety and security at the Port, exemplifying unwavering dedication and excellence. These achievements and continued investments strengthen our port community, allowing us to face the future with confidence and pride. I look forward to 2025 as we continue to serve with Honor, Pride, and Dedication.

If you’re interested in a career with HPD, visit our website at www.HPDnola.com to learn more about open positions, qualifications and to apply.

Chief Melanie Montroll