Summary
The article discusses how Hurricane Katrina led to changes in the public defender system in New Orleans. The storm initially worsened the already problematic system, but eventually, it created opportunities for long-needed improvements. Two decades later, the public defender system in New Orleans has seen significant progress.
Key Facts
- Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005, causing widespread damage.
- The storm worsened the city's public defender system, which was already struggling.
- Many people in jail were left in difficult situations for a long time after the storm.
- The aftermath of Katrina cleared the way for necessary changes in the system.
- Changes that improved the public defender system have been made over the past two decades.
- In 2006, detailed reports highlighted the system's struggles post-Katrina.
- Recent assessments show a much improved public defender system in New Orleans.
