'Systemic internal failures' have IG embedding in New Orleans Safety and Permits Office

In the wake of scandal after scandal, final arrangements are underway for real time monitoring of New Orleans Department of Safety and Permits.

Since the deadly collapse of the Hard Rock Hotel construction project, there have been a steady string of allegations, indictments and convictions linked to corruption in Safety and Permits at New Orleans City Hall.

"The agency is facing systemic internal failures," said New Orleans Inspector General Ed Michel.

He says that’s why he has taking the dramatic action of placing personnel from his office in Safety and Permits.

"We will be initiating an OIG embed," Michel explained.
"The plan is already in place, and the individual personnel have already been selected."

The IG said he was meeting with Safety and Permits this week, and the embed is set to start next week.

He says the goal is to try and prevent further bribery, other corruption and mismanagement that endangers the public.