Montgomery Mayor: New Crime Fighting Task Force Making Progress

MONTGOMERY, Alabama (WSFA) – Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed says the new Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit (MACS) has had numerous successes in its first month.

Recent successes include the seizure of two firearms and over 17 grams of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Officers also issued six arrest warrants.

The mayor said fighting crime is an ongoing process.

“This didn't happen overnight,” Reed said. “It's not going to change overnight.”

In the meantime, Montgomery Police Department is working to recruit and retain new officers. The City Council recently approved a department-wide pay raise for all ranks.

Reed said hiring is coming “slowly,” but the focus is on filling positions with “qualified people.”

The search for the next police chief is still ongoing. Reed mentioned that there are 40 applicants so far and the city will begin reviewing applications next month.

The mayor said that the fight against crime, prevention and intervention requires cooperation on all fronts, including at community level.

“We need to make sure that we don't stoke tensions on social media and that we don't stoke division in places where we can calm emotions,” Reed said.

The mayor said people can get involved by joining neighborhood organizations, volunteering with youth and supporting nonprofits, among other things.

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