Revisiting Crime Strategies in Alabama
In light of the recent mass shootings in Montgomery, there’s a growing discussion about whether Alabama should adopt similar measures to those taken by the Trump administration in response to crime in cities like Memphis, Portland, and Chicago. Should the state deploy more law enforcement resources and support to Montgomery?
The state’s top law enforcement official is reconsidering “state authority over the capital” as violent crime rates escalate in Montgomery. This discussion gained urgency following a tragic shooting downtown that left two people dead and three others critically injured, with a total of 14 shots fired near key entertainment venues in the area.
The shooting occurred in a location frequented by state officials and is situated close to several major hotels and entertainment centers, which raises concerns beyond just the immediate violence. As of now, no suspects have been arrested or identified.
Marshall, the attorney general, is already engaged in a national effort addressing crime. A collaborative initiative called the Montgomery Area Crime Control (MACS) unit was established in 2024 by federal and local officials.
Early reports suggest that the MACS unit is making some progress in curbing violent crime, and the recent incidents underscore the urgency of this challenge. Marshall characterized the situation as a “crisis,” noting the need for ongoing commitment and action.
“My deepest sympathy extends to the victims and families of those affected by the pointless violence that took place in downtown Montgomery last night. These events highlight the emphasis that our capital is in crisis. As a capable and accountable person, as Montgomery residents, I remain committed to my efforts to turn the city around and revisit the conversation about the state’s authority over the capital.”
The MACS unit, a multi-agency task force formed 15 months ago, aims to tackle violent crime in Montgomery and the surrounding areas. It is led by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and includes contributions from several agencies, such as the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, Montgomery Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and the ATF, leveraging resources to connect firearms to crime scenes through advanced technologies.
Since its inception, the MACS unit has reported measurable but somewhat limited success. In its first year, it achieved a noticeable reduction in both violent and overall crime in Montgomery, seizing hundreds of illegal weapons and stolen vehicles. Authorities also noted a decrease in serious crime-related emergency calls and gunshot-related visits to local emergency rooms.
Given this initial success, state leaders are considering whether to extend the MACS framework to other Alabama cities like Birmingham. Governor Kay Ivey has proposed the creation of a permanent task force that can be dispatched to other regions as needed, seeking $3 million to support this effort.
This leads to the ongoing conversation about the available strategies for Alabama when it comes to managing crime in Montgomery and beyond. It’s a vital dialogue that Attorney General Marshall is keen to engage in.
