Mardi Gras is the largest event in New Orleans ever year, and there’s reason for it. It’s fun! This means that thousands of people flock to the city to spend a night, a few days, or even a few weeks in the Big Easy. Although local New Orleans residents spend most of their time out on the parade routes, almost all visitors and some residents will spend time in the French Quarter during the two week Mardi Gras party. Whether you’re planning to go on a weekday, or on a weekend evening, you can expect to see an increase in security and safety this year at Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Heightened Gun Violence Leads to Heightened Security
It’s only January, but the greater New Orleans area has seen an increased gun violence over last January. Gun violence has always been an issue in the city, but in the first 18 days of 2017, there were already 47 people shot, and nine killed by gunfire. Though, this is not to alarm anyone as most of the shootings have been concentrated in a few areas, far from where tourists should be traveling. Because Mardi Gras is such a large event, and because protecting our residents and visitors is top priority, you can expect heightened security in the French Quarter this Mardi Gras.
Security and Safety Measures in the French Quarter
If you’ve ever walked down Bourbon Street on an event night, then you know what kinds of crowds to expect. Basically, jam packed, wall-to-wall people. Inside and outside the bars, restaurants, and streets, you will just see people upon people. Because of these types of crowds, I’m predicting that there will be an increase in law enforcement around the Quarter. Not only will you see on-duty police officers from Orleans Parish, the Sheriff’s Office, but also surrounding Parishes and state troopers as well. You could possibly even see National Guard out and about. But, there will also be an influx of off-duty officers as well.
You can expect to see metal detectors at establishments, and maybe even on the street. You should expect to be carded at every bar in the entire city, and you should always carry an ID with you, even if you aren’t going into a bar. (very common practice here in New Orleans) Law enforcement has the right to ask for your ID if they see or suspect any illegal activity.
This means that if you plan to do anything illegal, the likelihood that you will get away with it is slim to none. This includes: carrying or doing illicit drugs, drinking underage, drinking out of a glass bottle or container on the streets, urinating in public, assault of any kind, disturbing the peace, theft or shoplifting, lewd conduct, criminal damage to property or more.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe in the French Quarter at Mardi Gras
Here are a few suggestions on how you can ensure your own safety while you are enjoying Mardi Gras in the French Quarter, or anywhere else in the city for that matter.
Always travel with a friend or in a group
Always know your destination
Do not follow anyone you do not know anywhere
Carry an ID with you always
Stay within lit areas
If you plan to use a Taxicab or an Uber, make sure that the car picks you up in a busy or well-lit area
Do not carry valuables with you at all
Do not carry all your credit cards, tons of cash, or an open purse
If you must carry a Passport, use a wallet belt
Know the laws and follow them
What to Do if You’re Arrested in New Orleans at Mardi Gras
If you are arrested in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, you should respect law enforcement by providing your name and address and listening to them. You are not obligated to tell them anything else. If are you brought to Central Lockup, you should immediately call an experienced New Orleans Criminal Defense Lawyer, such as Crescent City Law. Call us at (504) 264-9492 or have someone e-mail us here. We understand that Mardi Gras is one big party, and we also understand that even though you may mean well, things can get out of hand. We do not believe that one oversight and misjudgment on your part should ruin your record, career, family life or more. We will work with you and the courts to ensure that your rights are protected and you have a fair fight. We are available nights, weekends, and off-site, so do not hesitate to contact us if you or someone you know has been arrested in New Orleans during Mardi Gras!
