SHREVEPORT, La. -- City leaders on Monday tackled a wide range of public safety concerns, from downtown homelessness and weekend shootings to statewide reforms designed to protect domestic violence victims.

Council member Alan Jackson Jr. raised concerns about individuals gathering under Shreveport bridges and in front of businesses during operating hours. Police officials stressed that the department cannot target people simply for their financial condition, but will intervene when laws are broken.

“We cannot target someone because of their financial condition," said Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith. "Public spaces are free to walk and sit, but if laws are broken, that’s different. ... We’ve had many incidents where groups intentionally try to bait officers into overstepping civil ri

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