A Louisiana judge temporarily blocked Governor Jeff Landry’s directive to clear homeless encampments near New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome, where Taylor Swift performed three shows last weekend. Landry had ordered state troopers and officers from the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to relocate around 75 people living in tents under an overpass near the venue, in anticipation of the influx of approximately 150,000 concertgoers.
The clearing efforts sparked backlash from some of the homeless individuals affected, who subsequently filed a lawsuit alleging that state troopers violated their constitutional rights by conducting illegal searches and seizing their property. The lawsuit also claimed a person observed state troopers telling the homeless people in question that “the governor wants you to move because of the Taylor Swift concert,” according to a report by Fox News.
Following the lawsuit, Louisiana Judge Lori Jupiter granted a temporary restraining order, directing law enforcement not to “destroy or dispose of the property of unhoused people without judicial process.” It also mandated that the individuals in the “state-sanctioned camp” be notified that they may leave. The restraining order will remain in effect until November 4.
According to Louisiana State Police, Landry’s directive had moved about 75 people approximately two blocks from their original location under the overpass.
A spokesperson for Landry explained that the directive was intended to address safety and homelessness issues as New Orleans prepares not only for Swift’s concerts but also for Super Bowl LIX, which the city will host in February.
“As we prepare for the city to host Taylor Swift and Super Bowl LIX, we are committed to ensuring New Orleans puts its best foot forward when on the world stage,” the spokesperson said.
