District Attorney Hillar Moore joins the show to discuss the findings of a recent legislative auditor’s report, which highlighted a looming financial crisis in his office. The report confirmed long-standing warnings that the DA’s office is on the brink of operating at a deficit, which is unconstitutional for a public office. Without additional funding, the office is projected to be $1.3 million in deficit by year’s end. Moore emphasized that while short-term fixes may help balance the budget temporarily, a long-term solution is urgently needed.

The DA’s office has historically relied on a complex and inefficient funding system, involving reimbursements from the city-parish. Moore explained that the local governing authority is constitutionally required to fund all “reasonable and necessary” expenses of the DA’s office, but defining those terms has been contentious. Staffing is a major concern—while Jefferson Parish has around 90 assistant DAs, East Baton Rouge has only 50, despite handling significantly more violent crime.

Budget cuts could severely impact community-based crime prevention programs and victim assistance services, which make up about 15% of the budget. These programs are vital for supporting victims and encouraging cooperation in prosecutions. Moore stressed that cutting these services would harm public safety.He also addressed the possibility of proposing a new tax to fund the office, but noted that past efforts failed due to voter fatigue and competing ballot issues. Instead, he advocates for a more equitable funding model where all cities within the parish contribute fairly, not just Baton Rouge. Moore concluded by reaffirming his commitment to working with local leaders to find a sustainable solution that prioritizes public safety.