Travers Mackel

2 weeks ago | wdsu.com | Travers Mackel

The next time you're in a wreck in New Orleans, a private company is more than likely to respond, with agents who have no arresting powers. And while they get to the scene much more quickly than police officers, some say the rapid response could lead to bigger problems down the road. A fender bender on Elysian Fields in Gentilly, and within minutes of the 911 call, an SUV labeled "OSS' pulls up to the scene. Not police ... but a private agent working for a private company called On Scene Services.

2 weeks ago | wdsu.com | Travers Mackel

Part 4: The Visionary The images of the Superdome in the days following Hurricane Katrina are gut-wrenching. One of the most iconic structures in the state, a building that seemed invincible, was almost destroyed. A symbol of despair in August 2005. "I'm Doug Thornton, and I was here for five days during Katrina."Thornton, lead executive with the company that runs and manages the Superdome, was there in 2005 and remains the top man today.

2 weeks ago | wdsu.com | Travers Mackel

A New Orleans businessman who has been charged in a wide-ranging probe into staged crashes is now facing a conspiracy to commit murder charge. Sean Alfortish is facing one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, three counts of obstruction of justice, and four counts of witness tampering.

3 weeks ago | wdsu.com | Travers Mackel

Commander's Palace is considered a classic, high-end restaurant in New Orleans. And state records show that last August — leaders at Delores Taylor Arthur School For Young Men spent almost $380 at the Garden District establishment. A dinner for a convocation speaker, according to online records. Less than 4 months later, Delaores Taylor Arthur School went out of business, citing financial concerns.

3 weeks ago | wdsu.com | Travers Mackel

Eleven lives lost, a coast in crisis and businesses threatened. The BP oil spill happened 15 years ago. It is still considered one of the worst environmental disasters this country has ever seen. The oil giant paid out $65 billion in cleanup costs, charges and penalties, but the scars still remain. The boats can be seen almost everywhere you look along Bayou la Loutre in St. Bernard Parish. The business of harvesting oysters in areas like Ysclosky is generational.