Public Defenders Supporters Parade In New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Supporters hoping to call attention to budget problems for the public defenders' office in New Orleans will parade in the city.

         The Orleans Public Defenders office says in a news release that Saturday's second-line parade and rally aims to call attention to "years of chronic underfunding" for public defenders.

         The parade will feature brass bands as well as social justice groups such as the Louisiana Center for Children's Rights and various social aid and pleasure clubs.

         The office says the parade idea was spearheaded by talk show host John Calhoun and the Original Big 7 and Nine Times Social and Pleasure Clubs.

         Public defenders across the state have struggled in recent years with budget shortfalls.

         The Orleans Public Defenders office has been refusing certain cases due to lack of resources.