HSI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge to Oversee Public Safety Coordination
NEW ORLEANS — Eric DeLaune, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans, has been selected to serve as the lead federal coordinator for Super Bowl LIX.
A native of New Orleans, DeLaune has held this vital federal coordinator role since December 2023 and is tasked with overseeing the coordination of DHS assets with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. His leadership will be crucial in providing essential public safety measures and resources to address any criminal threats the league and the host city may face before, during, and after the championship game on February 9, 2025.
“In the face of adversity, New Orleans has always risen to the occasion. As my fellow New Orleanians and I continue to mourn the loss of the 14 victims in the tragic January 1 Bourbon Street terror attack, I am more committed than ever to ensuring that HSI, along with our law enforcement partners at all levels, stands ready to safeguard Super Bowl LIX attendees and the public," said DeLaune. "Make no mistake, this great city — truly unlike any other — is a city defined by resilience and grit, and we are ready to show the world that we can deliver a safe and secure Super Bowl experience — for New Orleans, by New Orleans.”
As the principal federal official for domestic incident management, DeLaune was appointed by the Secretary of Homeland Security to serve as the Federal Coordinating Official for Super Bowl LIX. Federal Coordinating Officials are appointed for Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) events — high-profile events the Department of Homeland Security designate as requiring a robust response from federal agencies because of their attendance size and cultural significance. Other SEARs include Mardi Gras, the Rose Bowl Parade, the Kentucky Derby, the Boston Marathon, and New Year’s Eve in Times Square, New York.
In his critical role as lead federal coordinator, DeLaune is responsible for ensuring the safe and secure operation of all facets of Super Bowl LIX, including federal coordination of security for downtown New Orleans and its surrounding areas — land, air, and water. This unprecedented level of security will be achieved through close collaboration among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as private stakeholders such as the NFL. DeLaune’s leadership will guarantee the resources needed to secure the event are efficiently distributed and implemented.
DeLaune’s efforts will involve constant communication and coordination with law enforcement agencies at every level of government to assess threats and prevent crimes before they happen. His role includes preparing for, and responding to, crimes that may occur as a result of large gatherings, such as organized criminal activity, internet scams, cybersecurity threats and crimes of violence, exploitation and victimization. Additionally, he will oversee responses to intellectual property rights violations, all of which pose significant risks to both local and national economies.
“I will continue to work alongside our state and local leaders, as well as private partners, to ensure every aspect of this event is thoroughly planned and executed," DeLaune continued. "The security of Super Bowl LIX is not only a responsibility, but a reflection of the strength and spirit of New Orleans, and I am honored to lead these efforts.”
As the city prepares for one of the biggest events in the world, DeLaune's role as the lead federal coordinator underscores the high level of expertise and dedication required to ensure the safety of all involved.
About SAC Eric DeLaune
SAC DeLaune, a Louisiana native, leads all operational activities and administrative operations within the SAC New Orleans area of responsibility, which includes 17 offices across the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas.
DeLaune was born and raised in St. Mary Parish and served his local community as a member of the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office prior to beginning his federal career in 2000.
DeLaune graduated from the University of Louisiana with a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice, where he also serves as an adjunct faculty member. He earned a Master of Arts degree in criminal justice from the University of Memphis and holds a certificate in Key Executive Leadership from American University.