Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit releases report on stats, overall impact

The Metro Area Crime Suppression (MACS) Unit has released its first report on statistics and overall impact since it was launched in July. 

“The MACS Unit has demonstrated the need for more proactive law enforcement in our community," Assistant Chief Deputy of the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Wesley Richerson said. "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.”

According to the report MACS has conducted 1,300 traffic stops, served 347 outstanding arrest warrants, arrested 127 individuals on various charges, recovered 16 stolen vehicles and seized 83 firearms (17 of which had conversion devices) since June 24. 

There were 30 drug seizures, which includes a "significant" seizure of fentanyl that was reportedly enough to kill more than 5,000 people, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). 

“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," said ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Director Chris Inabinett. 

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"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.” 

Part of MACS is ALEA’s Highway Patrol, Capitol Patrol and Motor Enforcement Unit to monitor the roads, particularly on I-65 and I-85. There were 447 citations and 68 warnings for various traffic violations over a four-day period, the report said. 

Patrolmen also responded to 145 traffic accidents within the city limits of Montgomery. 

“We are proud to support MACS and our fellow partners by assisting with traffic enforcement and enhancing public safety on the roadways," said ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Director Colonel Jonathan Archer.

"Specifically, ALEA Troopers on Motorcycles are able to conduct numerous traffic stops in a short amount of time as motorcycles are highly maneuverable and usually not as easily spotted by violators. It is clear that MACS is making a difference regarding violent crime, we also pledge to make the same difference on our roadways.”