NOPD Suspends More Officers For Uniform Violations;
Cops Claim JazzFest T-Shirts Offer “Comfortability”

UPTOWN — In an unprecedented disciplinary action, the New Orleans Police Department has suspended an entire precinct of officers for what Superintendent Riley calls “an unforgivably egregious breach of department policy and public confidence.”

The precinct’s commander had apparently excused the entire squad from the typical uniform requirements in favor of T-shirts from the Jazz and Heritage Festival.

“I don’t see what the big deal is all about,” said 2nd District Precinct Commanding Officer Geoffry Babineaux.

“We just wanted our officers to achieve a certain level of comfortability. And the regular uniform just can’t do that.”

But the Superintendent’s office disagreed, telling a press conference: “We think the uniform is sharp, and, while we do give district commenders some leeway, this is not what we had in mind.

Superintendent spokesman Major Arnold LaPlace added:

“I mean, these officers weren’t even wearing shirts from the same year. Some of those shirts went as far back as the 80s. They’re nasty.”

Controversy has surrounded the switch from the traditional powder blue uniform to dark blue shirts, following cities like New York.

But while many officers have objected to the change, none have gone so far as to abandon the new uniform all together.

But Babineaux is adament that his decision was the right one.

“Having these guys wear their old Jazz Fest shirts not only is a tribute to the city and its heritage, but it helps make them part of the community.”

“And to achieve some comfortability,” he added.

Babineaux and his staff are awaiting a decision by an arbitrator, expected to be released later this week.