LA: NOPD under fire for Katrina killings

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina disturbing allegations of murder and cover up against members of the new orleans police department have shaken the confidence of this city and placed a cloud of corruption over the entire department. The task of lifting that cloud belongs to the newly appointed Police Superintendent Raul Serpas.

Ronal Serpas has been on the job for just four months... In May, this 30-year career officer was sworn in as New Orleans' new Police Chief.

He spent 20 years on the force here.... was the city's deputy chief before leaving for the Washington State Patrol in 2001..and later, six years as the top cop in Nashville. He was heavily recruited to return to New Orleans by new mayor, Mitch Landrieu.

The New Orleans Police Department is reeling from allegations of murder, conspiracy and civil rights violations in the chaotic days following Hurricane Katrina. When the storm hit dozens of police abandoned their posts. CBS News cameras caught others apparently looting stores. More than 500 officers were fired or disciplined for their actions.

Sherrel Johnson's son, 17-year old James Brissette, seen here in the only photo to survive the storm was shot six times by police while crossing the Danziger bridge five days after the storm. The police claimed self-defense. Five officers have pleaded guilty to covering up the shooting. Four others could receive the death penalty if convicted.

But efforts are being made to clean up the force. 18 current and former officers are under federal indictment. The Justice Department has launched at least 8 separate investigations and has stepped in to overhaul the entire police force. Something Serpas says, the city needs

Even before katrina, New Orleans was one of the most violent cities in America. Today the city's murder rate (49 per.100,000) is down from its post-katrina record (76.7 per 100,000) but New Orleans still ranks as the nation's murder capital. Crimes like theft and burglary are down 10 percent and police recruitment is up -- bringing the force almost back to a pre-2005 level (1,500 vs 1700) .

Chief Serpas has an aggressive 65-point plan to improve the department:Opening up meetings to the public; appointing a civilian to head the public integrity unit for the first time; creating a community outreach program; and introducing a zero-tolerance code of conduct.

Serpas says there is still a long way to go but he is not second guessing his decision to come back to New Orleans.

Original report here




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