Thursday night's sheriff debate got heated as candidates clashed over the recent jail break and OPSO’s long-standing consent decree. The race for Orleans Parish sheriff is heating up. WWL-TV hosted a full in-studio debate between: -Sheriff Susan Hutson (incumbent) -Michelle Woodfork (former NOPD interim superintendent) -Edwin Shorty Jr. (Orleans Parish constable) The candidates clashed over: --May’s jailbreak at the Orleans Justice Center — Hutson called it “a let out, not a breakout” -A cyberattack that disrupted sheriff’s office systems -Whether National Guard troops should be deployed to New Orleans -Immigration enforcement and Louisiana’s ban on “sanctuary cities” -Jail overcrowding, staffing shortages, and safety concerns -Deputy pay, budget transparency, and public trust Hutson defended her record while Woodfork and Shorty criticized her handling of recent crises, making this one of the most pivotal debates ahead of the October 11, 2025 election. Watch the entire debate here and decide for yourself who should lead Orleans Parish law enforcement. WWL anchors Devin Bartolotta and Brandon Walker moderated, asking the candidates questions about the issues that matter most to voters. The deadline to register in person to vote in time for the Oct. 11 election is Wednesday, Sept. 10. More New Orleans coverage: https://www.wwltv.com/ Watch WWL+: https://www.wwltv.com/watch #SheriffsDebate #WWLTV #NewOrleans #Election2025