By: Prentiss Smith, Contributing Columnist
Over the past two years, Shreveport residents have experienced a refreshing shift in city leadership under Mayor Tom Arceneaux. With his extensive experience, professionalism, and genuine love for the city, Arceneaux has brought a steady hand to City Hall. His laid-back style and ability to listen to all voices have endeared him to constituents who were ready for a period of stability and meaningful progress.
Arceneaux, a seasoned public servant, served two terms as a Shreveport city councilman, an experience that has proven invaluable during his mayoral tenure. His deep understanding of city government and institutional knowledge have allowed him to hit the ground running, addressing long-standing issues while maintaining a calm, drama-free administration.
Like the mayor, Caddo Parish’s newly elected Sheriff, Henry Whitehorn, who has been in office for less six months, impact is already palpable. He has seamlessly taken the reins of a department that was regarded as a top-tier operation under the long and innovative leadership of Sheriff Steve Prator.
Prator, who recently accepted a position with the state law enforcement agency, leaves behind a legacy of professionalism and excellence that set a high bar. Fortunately, Sheriff Whitehorn’s extensive background and steady leadership suggest that the department remains in capable hands.
Sheriff Whitehorn’s career in law enforcement is both deep and distinguished. An Air Force veteran, he began his career as a beat cop before rising to serve as Chief of Police for the City of Shreveport. His tenure there was marked by significant accomplishments, including securing much-needed pay raises for officers and overseeing a reduction in crime.
He also served as Superintendent of the Louisiana State Police and was appointed as a U.S. Marshal—a Presidential appointment that underscores his national recognition as a leader in law enforcement. Even after retiring, Whitehorn demonstrated his dedication to public service by taking on the challenging role of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the City of Shreveport under then-Mayor Adrian Perkins.
Unlike some political figures, Arceneaux and Whitehorn are not ones to seek the spotlight. Instead, they are focused on improving the quality of life for Caddo Parish and Shreveport residents. The mayor is committed to fixing the city’s aging infrastructure, particularly its streets, which has earned him widespread praise. While the task is daunting—streets like Jewella and Hearne remain in dire need of repair—progress is being made, and citizens are taking notice.
Under Mayor Arceneaux, Shreveport’s crime rates have also seen improvement during his administration. While murders remain a concern, overall crime numbers are down, offering a glimmer of hope for safer communities.
Sheriff Whitehorn has also brought the same professionalism, accessibility, and focus to his current role as the mayor has brought to his role as chief executive of the city. Their leadership styles are similar, and emphasize cooperation and inclusion, which has already begun to foster stronger relationships across the parish and the city.
Notably, the collaborative approach by the new Sheriff with Caddo Parish District Attorney James Stewart marks a shift from the sometimes-tense dynamic that existed during Prator’s tenure. Sheriff Whitehorn has also shown a commitment to supporting high-crime areas within Shreveport, even though they fall outside his primary jurisdiction.
His willingness to lend resources and expertise to the city highlights his dedication to improving public safety for all residents of Caddo Parish. This new spirit of partnership is essential in tackling pressing issues such as overcrowding and conditions at the parish jail.
Mayor Arceneaux and Sheriff Whitehorn’s early days in office have been marked by a refreshing lack of drama for both, and that is a quality that many residents deeply appreciate. Their pragmatic approach, coupled with their passion for the city and the parish, have set a new tone for leadership in Shreveport and Caddo Parish.
Their accessibility and approachability have also left a strong impression. During a recent sit-down with the Southeast Shreveport Rotary Club, of which I attended, Sheriff Whitehorn engaged with attendees in a candid and open manner. This refreshing level of transparency and availability for both public officials stand out in an era where public officials often seem out of reach and out of touch.
These two dynamic leaders have shown themselves to not only be capable leaders, but to also have the special qualities of commitment and dedication that will serve Caddo Parish and the city of Shreveport well in the years to come. Mayor Tom and Sheriff Henry are a political breath of fresh air. And that’s my take. smithpren@aol.com