NBA YoungBoy Concerts Spark Major Security Measures in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS — New Orleans police are preparing for NBA YoungBoy‘s sold-out concerts at the Smoothie King Center on Sunday, Oct. 19, and Monday, Oct. 20, by deploying over 400 officers amid concerns about possible violence.

The decision to increase security comes after multiple cancellations of YoungBoy’s shows in other cities due to safety issues. Officers will be supported by state, local, and federal partners. Security measures will include walking beats, mounted and bicycle units, tactical teams, drones, and armored vehicles throughout downtown and the French Quarter.

Police expect large crowds at the concerts, with the venue accommodating a maximum of 17,000 attendees each night. As traffic may become congested, officials warn concertgoers to plan ahead for street closures around Canal, Poydras, and Bourbon streets.

In an effort to expedite security screenings at the venue, the Smoothie King Center has implemented a strict no-bag policy. Only cell phones, keys, and wallets will be permitted inside. “For this show, bags of ALL SIZES, including clear bags, will NOT be permitted inside the venue,” Ticketmaster‘s website states.

NOPD Deputy Chief Hans Ganthier emphasized the importance of preparedness due to intelligence from other cities where concerts have faced security threats. “Our public message to everyone is if you have to bring a gun, don’t come down to the areas of interest,” he said.

Local officials also expressed concerns regarding the costs related to overtime for officers, as the city faces a budget deficit while needing to ensure public safety during these events.

NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, has regained his touring career following a 23-month prison sentence for gun charges. Despite past legal troubles, he remains one of the most popular rap stars today, with billions of streams on platforms like YouTube.