New Orleans, it's more than just a city to me.

 

It's home. My roots run deep here, generations deep. I was born, raised, and built my career right here in the heart of our vibrant, beautiful, and sometimes troubled city.

 

For most of my adult life, I've been on the front lines of our criminal justice system. As a judge, I've seen firsthand the struggles people face, the mistakes they make, and the potential they have. I've been in the trenches, presiding over countless cases, trying to find a balance between justice and compassion. I even taught at the Police Academy, hoping to instill a sense of fairness and respect in the next generation of officers.

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I've also been a prosecutor, dealing with the harsh realities of crime – arson, drug rings, homicides. I've seen the worst of what can happen, but I've also seen the resilience of our community.

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And, let's be honest, our city faces some serious challenges. The Sheriff's Office, in particular, has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. We've seen the shocking videos, heard the horror stories about the jail – the violence, the neglect, the lives lost. It breaks my heart to see our system failing the very people it's meant to serve.

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As a former judge, I understand the legal mess we're in with that consent decree. It's a mess that needs cleaning up, and I know how to do it. I'm not just talking about hiring someone to fix it; I'm talking about bringing in someone who understands the human element, who can treat inmates with respect while ensuring deputies are properly trained and held accountable.

 

We need to stop the violence and the deaths.

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I've also seen the power of rehabilitation firsthand. My drug court program showed me that people can change, that they deserve a second chance. We need to offer real help, not just lock people away. We need to tackle addiction, provide education, and give people the tools to rebuild their lives.

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Lets not forget about all the abandoned buildings owned by, and under the Sheriffs control. This blight has become a danger to our neighborhoods. It's not just an eyesore; it's a safety hazard. I want to work with the city to fix this, to turn these properties into something positive, something that benefits our community.

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I know we can do better. America is a land of opportunity, and we have access to grants that can help us make real change. I'm committed to finding those resources and putting them to good use.

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And let's not forget the importance of mental health. We need to partner with our local medical schools to provide inmates with the support they need to heal and recover.

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Look, I'm not doing this for the title or the power. I'm doing this because I love this city, and I'm tired of seeing it struggle. I'm stepping out of retirement because I believe I can make a difference. I've got the experience, the knowledge, and the passion to bring real change to the Sheriff's Office and make New Orleans a safer place for everyone. I'm asking for your support, your trust, and your belief in a better future for our city.

 

Judge Julain Parker