Montgomery reports overall crime down 19% and violent crime down 30%; mayor highlights $3 million ‘Together We Rise’ effort

Overall crime in Montgomery was down 19% and violent crime down 30% in the first half of the year, Mayor, Montgomery City, told reporters, though he cautioned that homicide figures have not fallen by the same margins.

The mayor credited Montgomery Police Department, the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and federal partners for the positive trends but said residents’ perceptions of safety remain a priority. “While we're seeing positive numbers… we know there's still more work to do around conflict resolution and de escalation strategies,” he said.

To address persistent violence and provide alternatives, the mayor said the city has invested more than $3,000,000 in the Together We Rise initiative to partner with faith leaders, Crime Stoppers and community‑based organizations. The program aims to reach youth at risk and provide pathways out of criminal activity through outreach, mentoring and services, the mayor said.

In a question about crimes targeting Hispanic‑owned businesses following a triple homicide last year, the mayor said cooperative community reporting and police work produced an important arrest and that stronger connections between law enforcement and affected communities remain a priority.

The mayor cautioned against complacency despite the year‑to‑date declines and said the city will continue community policing, prevention, and outreach efforts. No new budget ordinance or specific program expansions were detailed at the press conference.