Montgomery, AL – In an unprecedented collaboration aimed at curbing the devastating effects of the fentanyl epidemic, Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama and Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia spearheaded “Operation Free,” a multi-state enforcement initiative running from September 15 to October 31, 2024. The operation mobilized state law enforcement agencies, resulting in significant drug seizures and underscoring the severity of the crisis.
During this intensive period, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and officers from the Alabama Drug Enforcement Task Force (ADETF) seized over 48,800 grams of illicit substances, including approximately 1,700 grams of fentanyl. Governor Ivey, emphasizing the importance of this joint initiative, stated, “The fentanyl epidemic in America is one of our gravest threats, and we are doing all we can in Alabama to battle it and protect our citizens. Fentanyl cannot rob our people of their futures, so we will continue fighting to make sure this deadly drug is not a killer in Alabama.”
State Rep. Rex Reynolds, an advocate for stringent anti-drug measures, highlighted Alabama’s legislative strides to combat drug trafficking. “Operation Free perfectly aligns with the state of Alabama’s ongoing efforts to fight the opioid and fentanyl epidemic,” said Rep. Reynolds. He noted Alabama’s recent legislative actions, including the imposition of the nation’s toughest penalties for fentanyl trafficking and the introduction of mandatory education programs on drug dangers through the Price Hornsby Act. These measures, coupled with substantial investments in substance abuse treatment, reflect a broad commitment to saving lives.
Congressman Dale Strong, invited by Rep. Reynolds to join the operation, brought his firsthand experience as a first responder. “As a lifelong first responder, I have personally worked over 300 drug overdose calls,” said Strong. “This deadly drug is pouring across our Southern Border and wreaking havoc in our communities.” He underscored that local enforcement, recovery funding, and community education are crucial in tackling the crisis alongside federal border security efforts.
Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, poses one of the greatest public safety challenges of recent years. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), 2023 saw the seizure of over 80 million fentanyl-laced pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl powder, translating to 390 million potential lethal doses. The staggering volume highlights the drug’s pervasive threat to communities and first responders.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor reinforced Alabama’s commitment to multi-state collaborations, stating, “Public safety is a shared responsibility that transcends state lines. We were proud to join our state counterparts during Operation Free and will continue to take proactive measures to protect our state from the destruction and increasing concern caused by fentanyl.”
Alabama’s law enforcement agencies have increased their capacity to fight drug trafficking through specialized units like ADETF, which works with 47 local agencies, providing critical resources for addressing upper-level drug operations. Additionally, the Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit (MACS), created in partnership with ALEA, the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, and local police and sheriff’s offices, targets violent and drug-related crimes in the capital region. Notably, in one August operation, MACS seized enough fentanyl to potentially kill 5,000 people.
The fight against fentanyl extends to Alabama’s correctional facilities, where the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) plays a pivotal role. Commissioner Hamm emphasized the importance of disrupting contraband networks to curb inmate violence and fatalities. The ADOC’s zero-tolerance policy has led to increased surveillance and coordination with external agencies to stem the influx of dangerous substances into prisons.
Alabama and Virginia’s joint operation underscores a shared determination to counteract the opioid crisis and foster safer communities. As the state pushes forward, leaders like Governor Ivey and agencies like ALEA remain resolute in their mission: to protect lives and ensure a secure future for Alabama.
