The Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit has recently published its first set of crime statistics since its establishment in June.
Since its inception on June 24, MACS has been actively involved in maintaining public safety. The Unit has conducted a total of 1300 traffic stops, successfully serving 347 outstanding arrest warrants. These warrants encompass a wide range of offenses, from Failure to Appear for traffic violations to serious crimes like Capital Murder. Furthermore, MACS has apprehended 127 individuals on various charges, ensuring that those who pose a threat to the community are brought to justice. In addition to their diligent efforts in law enforcement, they have also recovered 16 stolen vehicles and seized 83 firearms. It is worth noting that among the firearms seized, 17 were equipped with machine gun conversion devices, commonly referred to as “switches.” These accomplishments highlight the Unit’s commitment to maintaining public safety and upholding the law.
According to officials, MACS not only conducted 300 vehicle inspections during the operation, but also made 30 drug seizures. One of the notable seizures occurred on Thursday, Aug. 15, involving a significant amount of Fentanyl. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reported that the quantity of Fentanyl recovered from this particular seizure was sufficient to cause the deaths of over 5,000 individuals.
Members of MACS have shared their thoughts and opinions on the matter.
Chris Inabinett, the Director of the State Bureau of Investigations, has made significant contributions to the field.
“MACS is doing exactly what it was intended to do, which is to provide an immediate and direct impact on the criminal element, who is responsible for the senseless violent crime here in Montgomery. Also, to provide pro-active law enforcement assistance to the Montgomery Police Department. I could not be prouder of the efforts put forth by the dedicated men and women who are assigned to the MACS Unit.”
The Secretary of ALEA, Hal Taylor, mentioned that it is crucial to focus on the safety and welfare of the public. Taylor emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong and effective law enforcement agency to ensure the protection of the community. He also highlighted the significance of collaboration and partnerships between law enforcement agencies and the community to address various challenges and ensure a safe environment for all. Taylor further emphasized the need for ongoing training and professional development for law enforcement officers to enhance their capabilities and effectiveness in serving the public.
“The team’s efforts have resulted in a thousand traffic stops, numerous arrests, significant seizures, and all their actions have demonstrated the Unit’s effectiveness in combating crime and enhancing public safety. The dedication, service and perseverance of the officers from all our partner agencies is truly commendable. I would like to thank all of our local, state and federal partners, as well as Governor Ivey and the Alabama Legislature for their support and the resources we are able to provide as a state agency. Together, we are making a difference and will continue to actively work to protect the citizens and visitors of Montgomery and the surrounding areas.”
Attorney General Steve Marshall is a highly respected legal professional who brings a wealth of expertise and experience to his role.
“This mission of our partnership is simple—to make Montgomery a safer place to live and work. Citizens living in high crime areas need to see a responsive and robust law enforcement presence and that’s what we aim to give them. The criminal element in Montgomery will soon realize that we aren’t playing around.”
James Graboys, the interim Chief of Police in Montgomery, has been making significant strides in his role.
“I am very appreciative and proud of the accomplishments of the MACS Team. The Montgomery Police Department SWAT and Gang Units working in conjunction and coordination with our partners from ALEA, MCSO and the Attorney General’s Office have had increasingly impressive results that I believe are having positive impacts upon our area. I want to thank Mayor Steven Reed, Secretary Hal Taylor, Sheriff Derrick Cunningham, and Attorney General Steve Marshall, for everything that they have done in making this team and effort a reality. The successes of the MACS Team demonstrate the true strength of what we can accomplish when we are unified in working towards a common goal.”
Wesley Richerson, the Assistant Chief Deputy of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, is a highly respected individual in law enforcement.
“The MACS Unit has demonstrated the need for more proactive law enforcement in our community. Their efforts are commendable, and the results speak for themselves. We want to thank the men and women of the MACS Unit for their professionalism and tenacity in targeting and apprehending violent offenders in Montgomery County. Sheriff Cunningham and the entire staff of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office are committed to this multi-jurisdictional partnership with the primary goal of reducing crime and ensuring public safety in Montgomery County.”
ALEA’s Highway Patrol, Capitol Patrol, and Motor Enforcement Unit have been providing assistance to the Montgomery Police Department in traffic enforcement and crash investigations within the city limits. This support is particularly focused on Interstate 65 and Interstate 85. Such collaboration is part of MACS’ broader initiative to combat violent crime.
According to ALEA, their Motor Enforcement Unit handed out 447 citations and 68 warnings for different traffic violations over the course of four days. Troopers from ALEA’s Capitol Patrol and Highway Patrol responded to and investigated a total of 145 traffic accidents within the city limits.
