FRENCH QUARTER Attack Ignites Fury Over Weak Public Safety
— A brutal attack in New Orleans’ French Quarter early Thursday has left a tourist in the hospital and sparked a wave of anger over public safety. Police say Mark Johnson, 45, beat David Miller, 32, with a metal pipe outside a crowded restaurant. Witnesses reported Johnson was drunk and yelling racial slurs before the assault.
Officers acted fast and caught Johnson nearby. He had blood on his clothes and was carrying the suspected weapon. Police charged him with assault with a deadly weapon, hate crime, and aggravated battery. Records show he has been convicted before for assault and disorderly conduct.
The attack has many residents and tourists demanding more police on the streets. Mayor LaToya Cantrell called the violence unacceptable. She promised more patrols in the French Quarter along with new security cameras.
Locals say this is just another example of rising crime during tourist season. Many believe stronger law enforcement is needed to keep repeat offenders like Johnson off the streets — and to protect both visitors and residents from harm.
