Noteworthy praises of DA's office

"It looks like some of the dysfunction in the district attorney's office has changed," said FBI special agent in charge Jim Bernazzani, who also testified before the legislative panel Monday. "The community is beginning to cooperate because tips are up. We have to build that confidence."

Darlene Cusanza of Crimestoppers Inc. said the anonymous tip line has helped clear 40 murder cases in 2007 and given out $101,000 in cash awards this year, up from about $60,000 last year.

New Orleans Police Superintendent Warren Riley, whose officers have been struggling with a seemingly never-ending cycle of revenge killings and a code of silence among witnesses, said the new lead prosecutor has helped ease a strained relationship.