Caddo Parish DA James Stewart Highlights Strong Trial Record, Calls for Criminal Justice Investment

 Caddo Parish District Attorney James Stewart says his office is handling one of the heaviest trial loads in Louisiana while pressing for greater investment in the local criminal justice system. 

Caddo Leads in Jury Trials 

According to recent reports, Caddo Parish brought 60 jury trials to court last year, the third highest in the state. Only Orleans and Jefferson Parishes had more, despite each having far more judges available to handle cases. Stewart noted that the numbers are not a one-year spike, but consistent across the past decade. Stewart told KEEL News on Tuesday:

“We’re consistent in the way we approach prosecution,” Stewart said. “Our people are dedicated, focused, and well-trained.” 

The Challenge of Repeat Offenders 

Concerns about repeat offenders remain a visible issue in the community. Stewart explained that while law enforcement arrests suspects based on probable cause, prosecutors must meet the higher standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. That means not every arrest leads to a conviction. 

“Unless it’s a murder or a rape, you don’t get put away for life,” Stewart said. “We don’t control how judges sentence people or how the Department of Corrections calculates time.” 

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Responding to Criticism 

National voices have been critical of crime in Shreveport, including U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson. Stewart responded by saying the criticism is misguided. “If you stay focused on what you’re doing, we know what’s true and what’s not true,” he said. “I’m not about to get into a debate. We just keep doing the work.” 

Funding and Staffing Shortages 

Stewart stressed that the greatest obstacle is resources. Prosecutors, public defenders, and law enforcement officers often leave for better pay elsewhere, leaving the system strained. 

“It costs more now for people to live. They come out of law school with debt. We’re going to have to raise the price,” Stewart said. He added that even Governor Jeff Landry has acknowledged the need for more funding to retain legal staff. 

Looking Forward 

While discussions continue about creating another criminal section in Caddo Parish, Stewart emphasized that without additional prosecutors and defenders, the system cannot support it. “We’re maxed out,” he said. “In order to do what we do effectively, we’re maxed out.”