On Thursday, federal, state and local law enforcement officials announced the establishment of the Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit or MACS to address crime in Montgomery and surrounding areas.
The announcement was made by representatives from the the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), in collaboration with the Alabama Attorney General's Office, the Montgomery Police Department, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive (ATF).
“We are proud to announce the launch of MACS and look forward to its positive impact for the citizens and visitors of Montgomery. MACS is yet another example of local, state and federal agencies working together to proactively combat crime. This effort will not only enhance public safety in the capital city but will help ALEA further its overall mission of making our state a safer place to live,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said in a statement.
“Additionally, I would like to sincerely thank Governor Kay Ivey for her unwavering support of all law enforcement and continued commitment to prevent crime in Alabama. With the combined support of Governor Ivey and the Alabama Legislature, we are able to provide exceptional consolidated law enforcement services in order to assist and enhance initiatives such as MACS.”
The statement said that MACS aims to reduce crime through "sustained, proactive and coordinated investigations" as well as to obtain prosecutions for organized crime, drug conspiracy, robbery, motor vehicle theft and firearms violations.
MACS will also reportedly expand communications and cooperation efforts among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies through the Alabama Drug Enforcement Task Force.
“As Alabamians, we have no tolerance for violent crime and our capital city should reflect that mantra," said Attorney General Steve Marshall. "This coalition is a strong statement that Alabama’s law enforcement agencies are united and that, with strong leadership and clarity of purpose, it is absolutely possible to stem the rising tide of crime. I look forward to many more successes for my friends and neighbors in Montgomery.”
On June 24, MACS convened for training before operating for 12 days where 413 traffic stops were made, 49 individuals were arrested on various charges, served 195 arrest warrants, recovered five stolen vehicles and seized 33 firearms. Of those firearms there were four that had machine gun conversion devices also known as “switches.”
“As we continue to support and applaud the Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit, let us also remember the importance of community involvement and cooperation in creating a safer environment for everyone," said Montgomery Interim Chief of Police James Graboys. "Together, we can make a difference and build a brighter future for our city."
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