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That is a very good summary of what Col Hunt said basically the major looting and thieving was from gangs both inside and outside the State and the shooting was them competing against each other for the best pickings.

They took advantage of what they knew would happen during this tragedy that the focus would be on rescuing those who did not make it out of the city before the flood.

I think also I am correct if not I am sure someone will correct me that Blanco also had not given permission for the Guard to act as Law Enforcement so with the police weakened the gangs rang amok.

I think also I am correct if not I am sure someone will correct me that Blanco also had not given permission for the Guard to act as Law Enforcement so with the police weakened the gangs rang amok.

I wouldn't view so much as a permission item, as an "assignment" item. Blanco's first reaction was to order the NG under her command to perform search and rescue.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31
Morning
Governor Blanco called for a total evacuation of the city of New Orleans. In an interview on Good Morning America, the Governor said "We've sent buses in. We will be either loading them by boat, helicopter, anything that is necessary." When asked about looting the Governor said "We don't like looters one bit, but first and foremost is search and rescue.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
"You know the reason why the looters got out of control?" Nagin said. "We have most of our resources saving people. They were stuck in attics, man, old ladies. You pull off the doggone ventilator and look down and they're standing there in water up to their fricking neck."
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/9287434/page/4/

You are correct on that matter, she was overheard and taped saying that she should have sent in the Guard earlier. The coast Guard does have Law Enforcement power, but they were too busy pulling victims off rooftops and dodging sniper fire to capture Marauding gangs looting the whole city.