BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — Baton Rouge Police Chief Thomas Morse Jr. provided an update on the state of crime and policing in Baton Rouge at the end of 2024, highlighting significant achievements and pressing challenges. Crime statistics and policing efforts Morse said the Baton Rouge Police Department responded to over 200,000 calls for service in 2024, underscoring a busy year for the city’s law enforcement. Officers handled 17,000 traffic crashes, made 7,700 arrests—3,800 of which were felonies—recovered 1,000 stolen vehicles, and seized over 1,200 firearms. Overall crime in Baton Rouge has decreased, with both violent and property crimes dropping by 8.5%. However, homicides rose slightly by 5%, with three more cases recorded in 2024 compared to the previous year. Morse noted a common misconception regarding parish-wide homicide data, which includes cases classified differently from those strictly under BRPD’s jurisdiction. Juvenile crime and Technology initiatives BRPD continues to strengthen ties with the community through programs such as the Youth Advisory Council and expanded partnerships with local homeowners’ associations and businesses. The department has added almost 200 license plate readers and security cameras, bolstering investigative capabilities. The ConnectBlue initiative allows residents and businesses to share access to security footage. “We can’t arrest our way out of all the issues,” the chief said, calling on community organizations to play a more active role in preventing youth violence. Juvenile involvement in homicides remains troubling, with 16 juveniles aged 16 and younger arrested for homicide in 2024. "Somewhere along the way, there were structures in place that failed these kids, whether it's the home environment, whether it's the schools, whether it's the churches, community organizations. We need to reach these kids so that they don't go down this path. By the time they commit the murder and we have to be involved, it's too late," he said. Budget constraints and officer retention Despite progress, budget cuts present a significant challenge for the department. Morse said BRPD is facing a $9 million budget reduction, which will affect salaries, overtime and the ability to staff special events. The chief said that the cuts could result in lower earnings for officers in 2025 and urged the city administration to address pay disparities compared to neighboring departments. BRPD is also exploring solutions to mitigate staffing shortages, including re-hiring retirees part-time under a new state law. Morse said the department aims to continue attracting new talent with its reputation for top-tier training, including the Citizens Academy and women’s self-defense programs. Tackling gangs and illegal weapons Efforts to combat violent groups, often labeled as “gangs,” remain a priority. The department made strides in 2024, including a landmark gang activity indictment through collaboration with East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore’s office. Morse said BRPD also ramped up enforcement against illegal gun modifications, such as “switches” that convert firearms into automatic weapons, which are becoming increasingly common. Looking ahead As Morse approaches his first anniversary in the role, he expressed optimism for the future. "I can't thank the men and women of the Baton Rouge Police Department enough for what they're doing. They're working harder with less. They're answering more calls with less people, investigating more cases with less people, but they're stepping up to the plate," Morse said. BRPD is actively recruiting for its next training academy in July 2025, with opportunities ranging from officers to dispatchers and crime analysts. Morse urged the community to help curb crime by reporting illegal activity and supporting programs that address the root causes of violence. Watch the full interview below. Latest News Second suspect arrested in New Year's Eve shooting that left one dead in Baton Rouge Baton Rouge police chief highlights crime drop in 2024, challenges ahead Iowa restaurant receives backlash after adding 'inflation fee' Baton Rouge restaurant Big Cheezy to join Guy Fieri’s Super Bowl tailgate Louisiana lawmakers introduce essential needs kit for parents of newborns