Selma mayor, police chief, DA hold joint press conference unveiling strategy to curb crime

Selma Mayor Johnny Moss, Police Chief Kenta Fulford and District Attorney Robert Turner Jr. stood shoulder to shoulder Wednesday to announce a strategy to address the city’s rising gun violence and restore public trust. 

The press conference, held at City Hall in the council chambers, opened with a solemn acknowledgment of recent tragedies and a call to action. The city has had 14 murders so far this year. 

“Selma, our hearts are heavy. We are tired, but we are also determined,” Moss said, flanked by local high school students. “Their presence reminds us what’s at stake. Every decision we make must be about building a safer, stronger city for them.” 

The mayor outlined a multi-pronged approach that includes increased patrol visibility in high-incident areas, strategic deployment adjustments and deeper collaboration with state and federal partners. And he saidit will be done with transparency and accountability. 

“I support our officers, and I honor the courage it takes to serve,” Moss said. “But I also believe in accountability, not as punishment, but as a partnership.” 

Chief Fulford detailed the department’s plan that includes expanded community partnerships, targeted patrols and more focus on illegal firearms enforcement.  

“Gun violence continues to impact families, neighborhoods and our entire community,” Fulford said. “Each life lost or changed by gunfire is one too many.” 

The department plans to host community safety forums and restart neighborhood watch programs. Fulford also highlighted efforts to engage youth through school-based education on gun safety and the consequences of firearm misuse. 

Fulford said patrols would be concentrated in areas with the highest volume of shots-fired calls and late-night incidents. He also noted that the department is exploring technology partnerships, such as a citywide camera-sharing system modeled after Montgomery’s “StarChase” initiative, to enhance real-time monitoring and response. 

District Attorney Turner added there needs to be continued investment in law enforcement staffing and resources. “We’ve been in the trenches with an exorbitant number of violent crimes,” Turner said. “But what I’m seeing today is encouraging. Everyone seems to be on one accord.” 

Turner addressed concerns about repeat offenders and the challenges of prosecuting cases without community cooperation. “People are afraid to report for fear of retaliation,” he said. “But with coordinated efforts, we can build stronger cases that lead to convictions.” 

Throughout the event, officials emphasized the role of young people in shaping a safer Selma, considering many shootings have involved teens. “We must reach our young people before violence does,” Moss said. Turner added, “We need to highlight students like those behind us today. They are the hope dealers.” The teens represented the Dallas County Drug Free Communities organization. 

The press conference concluded with a call for collective responsibility and faith. “Psalm 34:14 reminds us: Turn away from evil and do good. Seek peace and pursue it,” Moss said. “That’s not just scripture. That’s our assignment.”