NOPD Superintendent Michelle Woodfork asked to join WWL's Newell Normand on the radio today.
During her appearance on the show she told the former Jefferson Parish Sheriff that her administration is making progress in key areas... including recruitment, retention and crime fighting.
The Interim Chief they are making progress restocking the ranks after losing more than 100 officers and staff members last year.
"We currently have a class that is getting ready to graduate this Friday with eleven (cadets)."
Woodfork said a class of 18 recently started the academy, and 20 to 25 more recruits are set to begin the academy April 10th.
The chief said retaining current officers is also key, by supporting and valuing them.
"You are only as strong as the people in your organization."
Her strategy includes a new fleet of police cars, the latest crime fighting tools. new computers and other technology for officers and upgrading police stations.
Normand asked Woodfork if there was a plan to not only get new vehicles, gear and facilities; but also to maintain them so all those tools and resources don't deteriorate again.
The chief said they thought about that long and hard, and developed a plan to make sure they take care of all of the assets and gear.
She discussed progress in her violent crime fighting plan as well.
"We are currently down 20 percent on violent crime."
Woodfork says that is the result of all of the NOPD focused on the plan.
"Everybody has been really, really keeping their foot on the gas."
The chief says they are also working with the DA and federal prosecutors to get dangerous criminals off the street by working together and getting the US Attorney to take local cases when applicable.
"Our lines of communication are definitely great now."
The chief says another key is getting wanted suspects behind bars.
"We are having ten to 15 US Marshals come down, and we have a list of warrants."
She noted that she doesn't know how long she will lead the NOPD, but plans to make the most of whatever time she has.
"While I'm here, I am going to do everything in my power to make sure that the citizens of New Orleans are protected and served, but also that my officers know they are valued and I support them."
The chief says she will release more information on her plans Monday when she marks 100 days in office.
Normand highlighted some recent controversies surrounding the NOPD during the interview... including the leaked recordings of Officer Jeffrey Vappie in the Public Integrity Bureau Probe into allegations he and the mayor were having a sexual affair leading to payroll fraud. Normand asked the chief of the probe should be turned over to the New Orleans Inspector General.
"I really don't want to comment on the Vappie investigation. It has not arrived to my desk," Woodfork responded.
Normand, insisted the completion of the investigation was not needed to determine of the OIG should look at the case.
"That question goes to whether or not you believe that an independent body is better suited to investigate this particular matter because of the mayor's involvement."
Woodfork insisted she would not make that call until she sees what the Public Integrity Bureau finds.
"Then, I can make a better decision about should have an outside source actually look at this."
