How New Orleans went from ‘Murder Capital’ to cutting homicides by almost 50%

(InvestigateTV) — Flashing lights and crime scene tape are sometimes an inescapable part of our news and social media feeds. However, perception might not be a reality.

According to FBI data from the first half of 2024, crime rates dropped nationwide.

The Justice Department says it’s continued a historic decline from 2023 when the murder rate in the United States fell nearly 12%, the largest decline in decades.

Violent crime also decreased by an estimated 3%.

One city leading the decline is New Orleans. In the two years before the deadly New Year’s Day attack in the French Quarter, police, politicians, and community members worked together to make real change.

Crime levels have dropped so quickly, the city says its approach is garnering national attention.

Reporter Thanh Truong takes an in-depth look at how New Orleans slashed crime rates, while police manpower remains at historic lows.