Jimmy LeBlanc, the Secretary of Louisiana’s Department of Public Safety and Corrections, has announced his resignation after serving in the position for 16 years. In his letter to Republican Governor Jeff Landry, LeBlanc cited health reasons for stepping down. The Governor’s office confirmed the resignation, with LeBlanc stating he will return to his role as the warden of the Elayn Hunt Correctional Center to address his health concerns, effective August 29th.
Expressing that stepping down is in the department’s best interest and will allow for a new secretary to be appointed, LeBlanc described his tenure as the head of the corrections department as “the honor of a lifetime.” Governor Landry commended LeBlanc’s service, highlighting his dedication during his long and distinguished tenure.
Although a successor has not yet been named, Governor Landry emphasized that appointing a new secretary will be a top priority in the coming weeks. LeBlanc, with a career spanning over 50 years, initially took the helm of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections as acting secretary in 2007 under Governor Kathleen Blanco. He continued in the role through the administrations of Governors Bobby Jindal and John Bel Edwards before Landry took office in 2023.
Recognizing the significance of the leadership transition, LeBlanc pledged to provide guidance and support to his successor during the handover process.
