Mardi Gras is a time for fun. Students get a break from school and get to have a great time in New Orleans with their friends. There is a growing problem now-a-days though, the crime rate. So far, in 2021, there have been 218 murders in New Orleans alone. Just this year, the violent crime rate is well above the national average. Carjackings, alone, are up 90% in the last 4 years. Teens who plan to attend the festivities will be in dangerous areas. Just recently, a carjacking took place in River Ridge, the supposed second safest neighborhood in the metro area. It seems like we hear about a robbery or carjacking multiple times a week now. It’s as if the presence of police are not a good defense tactic anymore. The crime is getting very bad very quickly.
Mardi Gras can be a very hectic holiday making safety an even bigger concern. The crowds are large and filled with plenty of irresponsible people contributing to the unsafe measures of the city. To have to worry about the additional crime on top of it all, makes attending Mardi Gras this year a second thought. Some students are hesitating whether to even attend. Senior Mike Collet said, “I’m supposed to be having fun at Mardi Gras, not worrying about getting robbed. I would like to just be able to have a good time.” Other students still plan to participate despite the increased dangers, but will plan to act responsibly to stay safe. Senior, Ashton Lafrance commented, “I love this place, but it is dangerous and unsafe. I can’t even walk to the store anymore without having to watch over my back.” It’s an uncertain time right now, in our city, Tigers, and we hope everyone makes good choices and stays safe during this Mardi Gras break.