11:18 AM CDT on Tuesday, September 13, 2005

WWLTV.com

Sheriff Jack Strain continues to promote public safety and focus on crime prevention as the recovery from Hurricane Katrina continues in St. Tammany Parish.

"As of today, all contractors doing business in St. Tammany Parish will have occupational licenses, work permits and a special permit from my office," the sheriff announced. "We have created an additional layer of protection for our citizens so that anyone attempting to defraud or take advantage of hurricane victims will have traceable information on-file with local law enforcement.

"I have also allocated five deputies whose sole responsibility will be to patrol damaged areas and check for proper permitting and licensure from contractors working in those communities. This is in addition to the scores of deputies on regular patrol who are concentrating efforts in those areas.

"For years, I have boasted that St. Tammany Parish residents work together with law enforcement in refusing to allow crime to gain a foothold in our community. I firmly believe this is the collective character of our parish and that even in times of crisis we will work as one community to keep ourselves and each other safe from both physical harm and non-violent crime.

"I encourage all residents, as always, to report any criminal or suspicious activity to my office by calling 898-2340 or, in an emergency, 911. We are always standing by to assist you and we endeavor to be proactive to protect you. This isn't just our job; it is our calling, our duty and our privilege.