Law Enforcement Agencies Fight for Federal Drug Funding

 

Huntsville, Alabama (March 6, 2008) During a news conference this morning, law enforcement agencies that comprise the Madison-Morgan County Strategic Counterdrug Team (STAC) expressed serious concerns about the proposed cuts of federal funding. Huntsville Public Safety Director, Rex Reynolds said, “Our STAC Team, along with 32 other drug task force agencies in Alabama is funded by the Byrne Memorial Justice Grants. Those grants are currently at risk of substantial cuts, which will devastate many drug task force agencies and have a serious impact on our drug fighting capabilities and operations. Some congressional leaders are considering legislation that would restore the funding to the 2006 level for the remainder of 2008. Task force leaders met in Birmingham yesterday to discuss the impact of the potential cuts that would have a disastrous effect in our communities.”

 

Just yesterday, STAC Agents made 21 arrests, mostly drug related. During the 2007 fiscal year, the Madison-Morgan County STAC Team provided the following statistics:

 

• Made more than 750 arrests.
• Seized over 16 kilos of cocaine and 100 pounds of marijuana.
• Removed over 2,000 hits of ecstasy off the streets.
• Confiscated 41 guns from drug dealers and gang members.
• Recovered approximately $600,000 in cash and drug assets from dealers.
• Dismantled 36 clandestine methamphetamine labs.