Violent Crime in Montgomery and Birmingham
It’s hard to ignore the escalating issues of violent crime in two major metropolitan areas of our state: Montgomery and Birmingham. These cities are increasingly resembling conflict zones, plagued by violence reminiscent of places overwhelmed by drug cartels.
In 2024, the surge in violence and casual murders in Montgomery and Birmingham reached alarming levels, leaving residents fearful of venturing outside their homes. The sense of insecurity extended even to their interiors, where tragedies unfolded, including reports of children tragically killed by stray bullets while they were sleeping in Birmingham.
The situation in Montgomery deteriorated so much that lawmakers hesitated to visit the Capitol. Many Supreme Court justices only come when absolutely necessary. Nearby towns like Pike Road and the city of Auburn have become preferred homes for those commuting to work in Montgomery.
As the time approaches for the BRAC to consider the future of the Maxwell/Gunter Complex/War College in Montgomery, convincing the US Department of Defense to maintain its presence in what feels like a war zone will be challenging. The only argument might be that foreign officers receiving training there would encounter a training environment that simulates real conflict. In fact, surviving a year in Montgomery might be viewed as tougher than many actual combat situations. However, these young officers wouldn’t be able to bring their families to Montgomery.
It seems unlikely that Birmingham and Montgomery will become the growth centers of our state in the foreseeable future, but we cannot ignore the issue. The rampant crime and elevated murder rates tarnish the overall image of Alabama.
In response, our Republican-majority Congress has prioritized addressing crime in Birmingham and Montgomery. They’ve introduced a series of bills focusing on this pressing matter, with Governor Kay Ivey making an anti-crime proposal at the session’s start. The new laws are grounded in practical steps and are expected to make a significant impact.
By June 2024, leaders in Montgomery began tackling crime more directly by activating a special Metro crime suppression force, which has shown promising results. Led by Area directors Hal Taylor and Sheriff Derek Cunningham, this unit is taking decisive action in Montgomery.
In the last ten months, this specialized team, guided by ALEA, has executed 508 arrest warrants, made 202 arrests, seized 157 firearms and 100 devices for converting guns, recovered 35 stolen vehicles, initiated 56 vehicle pursuits, and conducted 44 drug raids, including a fentanyl bust potent enough to harm over 5,000 people.
Encouraged by the unit’s success, Reed Ingram (R-Pike Road) initiated legislation for additional funding to bolster the Montgomery initiative. It’s hoped that Birmingham will also benefit from these resources to support Taylor’s elite team. Senator Ingram noted that the unit has been effective in reducing violent crime in the surrounding areas.
State senators, led by Barfoot (R-Pike Road), have also introduced laws that classify the possession of a Glock Switch gun as a Class C felony under Alabama law.
A central piece of the anti-crime legislation is the Back the Blue Protection Act, championed by Rep. Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville), who previously served as Huntsville’s police chief. This act aims to shield law enforcement officers from lawsuits unless they clearly violate established rights or act recklessly without justification.
See you next week.
