Dr. Peter Scharf, a nationally-recognized criminologist and frequent guest on WWL's programs, has died.
According to officials at the LSU Health Sciences Center, where Scharf was on the faculty, Scharf died after a brief illness. He was 78.
"One of the country’s leading experts in corrections criminal justice research, field assessments, performance metrics, police deadly force training, and the public health aspects of crime, Dr. Scharf dedicated his life to studying and educating everyone from students to policymakers, law enforcement and the public to develop and implement strategies and policies to prevent or reduce crime," said Dr. Steve Nelson, the interim chancellor of LSU Health New Orleans, in a statement.
Scharf founded the Center for Society, Law, and Justice at the University of New Orleans. He worked with the White House on criminal justice in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. In addition to his work at UNO and at the LSU Health Sciences Center, Scharf taught at Tulane University.
Mayor LaToya Cantrell issued this statement after learning of Scharf's death:
"The City of New Orleans lost a devoted public servant whose extensive knowledge helped foster a justice system that is more accountable, coordinated, equitable and effective. As a renowned criminologist, professor and founding director of the University of New Orleans’ Center for Society, Law and Justice, the legacy that Dr. Scharf leaves behind is seen every day not only in the lives of the students he so positively impacted but also in the overall public safety policies and practices in place today. His dedication, professionalism and service to our City will always be remembered. May he rest in God's perfect peace."