Citing conversations with local clergy as his pivot point, NOPD Chief Ronal Serpas said the Department would stop releasing the arrest records of murder victims in press releases. Going forward, NOPD will provide a once-a-month list of victims' arrest records without naming names. The frequently discussed issue became a lightning rod last week after the NOPD did not immediately release the rap sheet of Harry "Mike" Ainsworth, an Algiers resident who frequently volunteered around the NOPD 8th District station.

“I believe it is necessary to share with the community the obvious and direct link between criminal behavior and the horrible acts of murder in our city," Serpas said in the press release. "I have always said, however, that there are very good arguments to share and not share this public information."

Arrest records of murder victims remain easily obtainable for anyone with an Internet connection and a little curiosity. A searchable database maintained at the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office website was often perused by media types and interested citizens even when records weren't released by the Department upfront. A petition began circulating this morning urging the NOPD to put an end to the policy. 

"The NOPD will continue to share the public criminal record of persons arrested for crimes in our community," Serpas said in the statement. "The people of New Orleans are entitled to this information, and know what challenges we face.  An informed public is critical in the fight to save our sons.”

The new, monthly list will include information on the victims' employment, felony arrest history, misdemeanor arrest history and prior arrest history on gun charges.