Shreveport Police Make Multiple Squatters Arrests with “Operation Ask Blue”

SHREVEPORT, LA

A few weeks ago, Caddo Parish Commissioner, and Highland resident, John Paul Young asked the city to do something about the rash of vacant house fires that were plaguing the Highland neighborhood.  Mayor Tom Arceneaux and the city council moved on legislation that now allows Shreveport Police officers to be able to make arrests of vagrants and squatters that were tresspassing on private property without having to confirm permission with property owners. 

Shreveport Officials Take Legal Action Against Squatters

The Shreveport Police Department launched "Operation Ask Blue" on April 10, 2025, a citywide initiative aimed at combating squatting and related criminal activity. This coordinated effort involves multiple city agencies and follows the recent approval of a new anti-squatting ordinance championed by Mayor Tom Arceneaux and the Shreveport City Council. 

The operation focused efforts in the Highland neighborhood, where officers made arrests on Thursday morning. During this initial phase, the operation is already yeilding results with the arrest of three individuals, Melvin Burks, Laken Dance, and Cheryl Bayles, who were arrested for violating the newly implemented ordinance. 

Officers also encountered Charles Lewis, who was arrested after being found in possession of a stolen firearm. While inspecting approximately 40 abandoned properties, authorities also located and arrested Jontravius Ealy, who had outstanding warrants.  

Chief Wayne Smith commended the hard work and diligence of the officers involved in the operation, stating, 

“This initiative is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together for the safety of our neighborhoods. I want to thank our officers for their tireless efforts and extend my gratitude to our city officials for providing us with the tools and legislation needed to make Shreveport safer.”