MEMPHIS, Tenn. — More Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers are on the streets of Shelby County as part of an effort to promote public safety.
Gov. Bill Lee announced starting Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, about 40 additional troopers from the THP motorcycle unit, interdiction team and commercial vehicle unit are joining other troopers already patrolling the Mid-South as part of ‘Operation Grizzly,’ which aims to decrease traffic deaths and promote public safety.
Then, starting Nov. 27, an additional 15 to 20 troopers will also join THP efforts in Memphis and Shelby County “for the foreseeable future.”
“As rising crime continues to be a reality in America, Tennessee is implementing proven crime prevention methods to keep our communities safe. I commend our THP troopers for stepping up to enhance the law enforcement presence in Shelby County and help deter criminal activity in the area,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “At the same time, local officials must carry out their responsibility to uphold the law and hold criminals accountable, without resorting to soft on crime plea deals that have serious consequences and too-often result in more crime and more victims.”
On Tuesday, Senator Brent Taylor responded to Gov. Lee's announcement, thanking him for his deployment of additional troopers.
"These additional troopers will not solve Memphis’ crime problem, but it will signal to the public and criminal alike, Tennessee is serious about fighting crime!" Taylor said.
Additionally, Senator Taylor raised concerns about the Shelby County District Attorney's emphasis on restorative justice for criminals.
"In my view, this emphasis is misplaced," Taylor's response said. "He is attempting to solve our acute crime issue with long-term approaches which may be appropriately considered, but only after crime is brought down to a manageable level.
It would be greatly appreciated if you could direct members of your administration to work with me and other members of the Shelby County legislative delegation to identify ways the State of Tennessee can hold the district attorney and the county judicial system accountable to carry out their responsibilities. It is critically important that we ensure their local mission aligns with Tennessee’s mission to protect our citizens from the ravages of crime."
According to the Governor’s Office, the Tennessee Highway Patrol has made more than 21,700 traffic stops in Shelby County since January 2023.