[FoxNews] Patel told Fox News Digital, the 'FBI has worked aggressively with our partners in Tennessee to establish a dedicated task force and deploy resources to tackle crime in Memphis'| Story of hunting down a suspect at the link. |
In May, FBI Director Kash Patel dubbed Tennessee's second most populous city the "homicide capital of America," and said the bureau would send a task force to the Volunteer State.
The FBI highlighted to Fox News Digital Operation Viper, which brings federal and state law enforcement together to combat violent crime with a strategic response. The FBI sent 15 additional special agents and two intelligence personnel to Memphis in late July to help with Operation Viper. As of August 8, Operation Viper has made 157 arrests and seized over 50 firearms.
"The FBI has worked aggressively with our partners in Tennessee to establish a dedicated task force and deploy resources to tackle crime in Memphis. While this operation remains ongoing, we are committed to delivering results and look forward to sharing them with the American people," Patel told Fox News Digital.
Nearly 50 troopers are now permanently stationed in Shelby County, according to THP Lt. Col. Jimmie Johnson, a stark increase from just six troopers around a decade ago.
On a Thursday evening in August, around half of that contingent prepared to hit the roads — and the skies — around Memphis.
"If you're going to work some of the hot spots, make sure that you're working in groups," Johnson advised the group. "Stay focused, stay safe, and let's make a difference."
Troopers donned their hats and set out in their SUVs. The patrol’s aviation unit kicked up a blinding cloud of debris as it lifted off from the parking lot.
Within minutes, troopers were making their first arrest, after a stop for fake tags — rampant in Memphis — turned up suspected fentanyl and LSD.
While traffic enforcement on the I-240 loop and surrounding highways is the primary objective, Johnson said flooding high-crime areas with officers can help root out more violent crimes. Troopers regularly seize drugs and weapons. Some of the guns they’ve confiscated have been tied to murders and other shootings, according to highway patrol officials.
Road-rage shootouts, drag racing, and other interstate takeovers are also down, said Johnson, who was born in Memphis and spent most of his career policing the highways around the Bluff City.
"We know that if we look beyond the stop, that can prevent something more violent from happening," he said.
Troopers made several other arrests over the next few hours, primarily for drug possession, but also for outstanding warrants. And they did plenty of traffic enforcement, like ticketing a driver for allegedly going 90 mph in a 55 zone, with two unbuckled children in the back seat.
The increased presence is being felt far beyond the interstate.
Violent crime does appear to be declining in Memphis and other cities, according to newly released FBI data. And homicides in the Bluff City are down about 11% compared to this time last year, Memphis Police Department data show.
With an increased presence on the highways, law enforcement hopes trends will continue in a positive direction.
"When we all work together… the good guys win," Sgt. Anthony Johnson said.
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