Major Raymond Burkart Jr., one of the New Orleans Police Department’s longest-serving officers, has been terminated after a 57-year run with the force, according to the department. NOPD says the decision took effect June 6, abruptly ending a career that has been part of the backdrop of city policing for decades.
As first reported by WDSU, the department confirmed Burkart’s termination but has not publicly disclosed what conduct led to the move. The outlet reported that the official notice was issued on June 6.
Background on Burkart
Burkart rose through the ranks to become a Major and remained on the department’s radar for years, with his name appearing on recent retirement-board agendas and meeting minutes. Records from the Municipal Police Employees’ Retirement System show him taking part in board business as recently as January 2026, underscoring his long-standing role in both city policing and pension oversight. MPERS minutes document his committee participation.
His lengthy career also surfaces in court and civil-service files, including earlier appeals and disciplinary matters in which he was a named party. A 2003 decision from the state’s Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal identifies Burkart as a Major and recounts Civil Service proceedings involving him. That ruling is available on Justia.
What Comes Next
Under city civil-service rules, classified employees who are fired can challenge the decision, but the clock runs quickly. Appeals typically must be filed within 30 days of the date on the disciplinary letter and are heard by the New Orleans Civil Service Commission. Official city decisions and prior commission rulings spell out the pre-termination notice requirements, the appeal window, and the standard of proof that applies at hearings. The Civil Service Commission has published documents summarizing those deadlines and procedures.
Context
The firing lands after a long and highly scrutinized reform period for the department. In November 2025, a federal judge lifted the longstanding Department of Justice consent decree that had imposed broad oversight and mandated changes at NOPD. That ruling, widely covered at the time, continues to form part of the backdrop for any major personnel shake-up at the agency. Verite News reported on the end of the consent decree and its implications.
According to WDSU, the department’s announcement about Burkart was first made public on June 9. NOPD has not immediately offered additional comment on the decision. We will track any appeal filings with the Civil Service Commission and update as official records or further statements from the department become available.
