Legislature awards Law Enforcement Medal of Honor
On Thursday, two Bibb County deputies were awarded the Alabama Law Enforcement Medal of Honor for their successful pursuit of a dangerous career criminal. Deputies Brad Johnson and Chris Poole engaged in a high-speed pursuit of Austin Hall. After crashing the stolen car, Hall engaged the officers in a deadly gun battle. Both officers were shot in the gun battle with Hall. Officer Johnson was declared dead the next day. House Resolution 181 reads: “COMMENDING DEPUTY BRAD JOHNSON AS A RECIPIENT FOR THE 2023 ALABAMA LEGISLATIVE MEDAL OF HONOR FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT. WHEREAS, it is with highest commendation that we recognize Deputy Brad Johnson as a recipient of the 2023 Alabama Legislative Medal of Honor for Law Enforcement, Alabama’s highest law enforcement award for extraordinary courage in the line of duty; and WHEREAS, on June 29, 2022, Deputy Chris Poole initiated the pursuit of a vehicle that was reported stolen in Calera and driven by a 26-year-old felon, who had been arrested on 46 criminal charges since the age of 17; at periods during the pursuit, speeds exceeded 100 miles per hour; and WHEREAS, the driver lost control of the vehicle and began firing gunshots towards Deputy Poole, who reported on his radio that he had been shot and urged Deputy Johnson, who had joined the pursuit, to back off because of the continuing gunfire; and WHEREAS, Deputy Johnson, who was determined to provide support for Deputy Poole, arrived at the scene, began firing, and placed two shots through the windshield; as Deputy Johnson stepped onto the side rail of his Sheriff’s Department vehicle, he successfully fired two additional rounds before sustaining a gunshot wound as well; both deputies were transported by police escort to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, where Poole was treated and released, and Johnson was placed on life support, which was removed the following day; and WHEREAS, Deputy Brad Johnson was pronounced dead shortly after 3:15 P.M. on June 30, 2022; andWHEREAS, for his bravery on June 29, 2022, and for the events that followed, Deputy Brad Johnson, is highly honored and deserving of the 2023 Legislative Medal of Honor; now therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA, That we hereby recognize and honor the late Deputy Brad Johnson as recipient of the 2023 Legislative Medal of Honor for Law Enforcement and by copy of this resolution prepared in honor and tribute, we commend his memory to the citizens of Alabama.” House Resolution 179 is the resolution honoring Deputy Poole. Poole was present with his family, as was the family of the late Deputy Johnson and members of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Department. The Law Enforcement Medal of Honor is awarded annually by the Legislature. Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth told the members of law enforcement present for the joint session: “On behalf of the people of Alabama, we appreciate what you do to keep Alabama safety.” Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed said, “When we are at our worse, they are at their best.” Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter said, “What an honor it is to be here today in the presence of greatness.” “We pray for you, and we pray that God puts his protection around you,” Ledbetter added. “Thank you for your service and what you do for our state.” Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor thanked the Legislature for giving this annual award and credited former State Rep. Howard Sanderford for starting this, “and thank you for keeping it going.” “What yall do every day is absolutely incredible for the people of Alabama,” Taylor told the officers. “We appreciate you more than you now.” Rep. Rex Reynolds said, “In Alabama, we stand with law enforcement.” Reynolds warned, “The law enforcement profession is under attack.” Reynolds said that since he was 17, Hall had been charged with 49 prior offenses prior to his violent encounters with Deputies Poole and Johnson. Hall had been released from prison just days prior on good time, even though he had other charges pending in the courts. Alabama Today asked if Hall should have been out of prison last June. “That was the basis for Senator [April] Weaver’s bill,” Reynolds said. That bill significantly curtailed good time sentence reductions awarded by prison wardens. Reynolds said that a similar situation occurred with the Huntsville police officer who was killed earlier this year. Reynolds is the former Huntsville Chief of Police. The awards ceremony occurred during a special joint session of both Houses of the Alabama Legislature. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Judge strikes down Alabama laws against panhandling
A federal judge last week struck down Alabama laws against panhandling, ruling that the statutes are unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge W. Keith Watkins issued the order Friday permanently enjoining the state from enforcing the laws against begging and pedestrian solicitation. The ruling came after the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency conceded that the appellate court ruled similar laws violate a person’s right to free speech. The decision ended litigation filed in 2020 challenging the laws on behalf of people who had been ticketed or jailed for panhandling in Montgomery. Legal groups that filed the lawsuit said the laws criminalized poverty. “The injunction is a victory for marginalized groups that find themselves in tough economic circumstances and in need of help,” Tish Gotell Faulks, legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Alabama, said in a statement about the litigation. “Criminalizing the solicitation of charitable donations does nothing to advance public safety. Instead, it multiplies already existing barriers for people experiencing homelessness. This can include unaffordable fines and fees, the loss of their freedom through incarceration, and a criminal record – all of which are obstacles to obtaining housing and economic security.” State lawyers conceded in an earlier court filing that the judge was bound by a decision from the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals finding such statutes as a violation of free speech rights. “The First Amendment was not originally understood to require the government to permit panhandling on public … even so, that begging is entitled to First Amendment protection is currently the law of this circuit,” state attorneys representing Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor wrote. Alabama lawmakers in the coming weeks are expected to take up new legislation aimed at preventing people from loitering on public highways, which could be a new avenue to target panhandlers. The bill by Republican Rep. Reed Ingram of Pike Road would increase the penalties for loitering on the side of state highways. “This bill is a public safety bill. We’re going after making the roads safer,” Ingram said. Ingram said he expects to adjust the legislation to spell out that the officer has the option to take the person to a shelter. “We want to find out if this person has mental health issues, drug issues whatever it may be, so we can find a way to help,” he said. Ingram said he expects the bill to be debated by a legislative committee as soon as next week. Republished with the permission of The Associated Press.
Kay Ivey visits ALEA headquarters to show her appreciation for law enforcement
Governor Kay Ivey on Monday made a surprise visit to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Headquarters to show her appreciation to members of law enforcement – commemorating National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Ivey thanked members of the law enforcement community for their commitment to keeping Alabama safe. The governor’s visit came during an operations meeting for the inauguration events on Monday. The governor expressed her appreciation for Secretary Hal Taylor, all those at ALEA, and other entities working to ensure the inauguration is safe for all in attendance. “Every single person in every division of law enforcement puts their lives on the line each time they go to work,” said Gov. Kay Ivey. “I am proud to celebrate them and their service always but especially today on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Public safety always has and always will be a priority of the Ivey Administration, and under my watch, we will continue to ensure Alabama is the safest place to live, work and raise a family.” Secretary Taylor said that Ivey has made public safety a top priority of her administration. “Law enforcement truly has no greater friend than Governor Kay Ivey,” said Secretary Hal Taylor. “During her administration, public safety has remained a top priority. Her unwavering commitment to support not only the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency but all law enforcement partners across the state has boosted morale for the courageous men and women who serve. I am personally grateful for Governor Ivey’s steadfast support, which has allowed this Agency to fulfill its core mission in every corner of the state and make measurable progress in the law enforcement support and public safety services we employ.” “I want Alabama to show our commitment to the people that wear the badge, not just in word but in action,” Ivey told reporters at an earlier event at the State Capitol with Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) Secretary John Hamm and Montgomery Police Chief Darryl Albert. “A week from today, we will be marking the start of our next four years in office, and we will not stop pursuing our goal of being the safest state in the nation and a sanctuary for law enforcement,” Ivey said. “Here in Alabama, we will protect our citizens. We will encourage rehabilitation among our inmates. We will enforce the law. We will ensure justice for victims, and we will always have the backs of our law enforcement.” Ivey’s inauguration for her second term will be on Monday. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Autauga County Sheriff Joe Sedinger has died
Autauga County Sheriff Joe Sedinger died late on Monday. The Autauga County Sheriff’s Department announced the news on social media: “It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved Autauga County Sheriff Joe Sedinger. Please continue to pray for not only his family but his blue family as well. He will be greatly missed by all.” Sedinger had just entered his third term as Sheriff after being re-elected in the Republican primary in May. Sedinger worked with the Sheriff’s office for decades and was a beloved fixture in the community. “It is a solemn day among the entire law enforcement community within Alabama as we all mourn the tragic and heartbreaking loss of Sheriff Sedinger,” said Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor. “On behalf of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sheriff Sedinger. He was a true professional and his dedication to serve the public will always be remembered. We recognize this is a devastating time for the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office as well as the entire community, which Sheriff Sedinger so faithfully served. As we continue to mourn alongside the law enforcement community, we also pray for Sheriff Sedinger’s family as they attempt to manage and cope with this terrible loss. Sheriff Sedinger’s courage, resolve, and never-ending bravery will continue to live on and provide us all with an example of a courageous servant’s heart. Along with sharing our sincerest condolences, we pledge to make all resources available to the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office as well as the surrounding community as they grieve this unfortunate and heartbreaking situation.” The county coroner takes over the role of Sheriff on an interim basis until the position can be filled. State Sen. Clyde Chambliss said on Facebook, “I am saddened by the passing of my friend and colleague Sheriff Joe Sedinger. I first met Joe in the early 90’s when we were both working on replacing the fuel tanks at the Sheriff’s office. He rose to be the top lawman in Autauga County. He was a Godly man, and I look forward to seeing him again in Heaven, worshiping our Lord and Savior. Well done Sheriff. Well done.” Covington County Sheriff Blake Turman said on Facebook, “It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that Autauga County Sheriff Joe Sedinger has passed away. Sheriff Sedinger is a good friend and a mentor of mine. He will be greatly missed. Please keep his family and the Autauga County Sheriffs Office in your prayers.” Sedinger said in his last Sheriff’s report on the official website, “As Thanksgiving approaches, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to serve Autauga County with such an outstanding group of people. The deputies and administrative support staff at Autauga County Sheriff’s Office are dedicated, hard-working, and committed to serving our County’s citizens. To show them that you value them as much as I do, I encourage you to give them a friendly smile or a kind word to let them know you appreciate them as much as I do. I am truly fortunate to have them by my side.” “I would especially like to extend my sincerest appreciation to the citizens of Autauga County,” Sedinger wrote. “Your efforts to enhance safety and cooperation with our office help make our County a great place to live and work. I am grateful for your assistance through the crime tips hotline, website, and in person. I sincerely appreciate your commitment to the safety of our community. My commitment to the citizens of this County has never been more substantial. I will continue to work with you to improve the quality of life for each resident we serve. The support you’ve shown the Sheriff’s Office during 2022 has been overwhelming. I am very thankful. Happy Thanksgiving!” The cause of death has not been released, and funeral arrangements are still being finalized. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Alabama closing driver license offices for computer update
Forget about getting a new drivers license in Alabama for a while: The state is temporarily shutting down all its licensing offices for a technology upgrade. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said it will close drivers license offices statewide beginning Monday to update a computer system that’s been used for almost 20 years. The agency plans to reopen them on April 26. State law has a 60-day grace period for license renewals, and Etowah County Probate Judge Scott Hassell said he expects officials to forgive people whose license expires during the shutdown. “We wanted to get the word out just so people will know what is going on,” he told The Gadsden Times. Besides new computer hardware, data on file since 1970 will be converted into the new Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License System, the state said in a news release. While neither in-person nor online services will be available to the public during the transition, state examiners will continue to administer road tests for regular and commercial licenses. County offices will be open only for revenue and probate services. “We understand that it may cause an inconvenience to some citizens that will not have full access of the driver license division’s resources and capabilities, but we assure everyone the result will be impressive, providing significant improvements for both citizens as well as driver license employees across the state,” Hal Taylor, head of the state police agency, said in a statement. Colorado-based Fast Enterprises, a technology company, is working on the new system, which will let applicants enter information before arriving at an office, officials said. It will also allow users to update personal information through an online system. Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.
Alabama Law Enforcement partners with Kulture City, become 1st LEOs to be sensory-inclusive
Governor Kay Ivey announced Tuesday, Aug. 3, a statewide partnership between the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and KultureCity, making ALEA the nation’s first state law enforcement agency to train and become sensory-inclusive. KultureCity is a non-profit organization recognized throughout the nation for utilizing its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for individuals with sensory needs or those with invisible disabilities. KultureCity began its training with a primary focus on entertainment and social venues across the United States. Since the program’s inception, they have created more than 700 sensory-inclusive venues in four countries with personnel trained on interacting with individuals who have sensory needs or invisible disabilities. The program’s training focuses on instilling understanding, acceptance, and empathy in first responders toward those who have sensory needs. The goal of this training is to enhance future interactions between law enforcement and the community to create the best outcomes. Ivey stated, “Individuals with sensory issues have often been misdiagnosed or received delayed assistance due to the lack of understanding of their sensory issues. I’m proud ALEA took initiative to train all sworn officers to be aware of and properly identify those with invisible disabilities. KultureCity training goes hand in hand with my administration’s goal to make mental health a priority and provide critical support to those that need it the most.” ALEA’s Secretary Hal Taylor commented, “We are committed to continuously developing new ways to improve our overall operations and interactions with all citizens, and today’s partnership is a testament to that commitment. As we move forward, it is my deepest and sincerest hope that ALEA becomes known throughout the nation as an agency that is devoted to training and equipping personnel for responding to situations with empathy, compassion, and the necessary skills to interact with all citizens, but particularly those who are most vulnerable.” Secretary Taylor added, “I want to thank Governor Ivey for her dedication to law enforcement and for supporting this partnership. We are honored to work with the Governor and KultureCity in a combined effort to deepen and diversify training within our agency.” Founder and CEO Dr. Julian Maha commented, “A trial phase for first-responder training was initiated and completed in Alabama. Since then, KultureCity has expanded to local law enforcement departments around the nation; however, ALEA is our first state law enforcement agency to become sensory certified.” KultureCity aligns with the mission of the Alabama Department of Mental Health as crisis services are stood up across the state, ensuring that individuals in crisis will have someone to talk to, someone to respond, and someplace to go. “I want to thank Governor Ivey and Secretary Taylor for leading the way to better outcomes for Alabamians with an invisible disability or a sensory need. This training is essential to creating a positive interaction between law enforcement and individuals with disabilities. I am excited Alabama law enforcement officers will have the tools they need to serve our most vulnerable citizens.” “We appreciate Governor Ivey and ALEA’s dedication to ensure Alabama’s first responders are equipped with the necessary resources to assist individuals with sensory needs,” Alabama League of Municipalities Executive Director Greg Cochran said. “The League encourages municipalities to take advantage of proven programs that address specific challenges within their communities.”
Alabama extends online driver license renewal due to COVID-19 pandemic
The State of Alabama is extending online driver license renewals due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Kay Ivey made the announcement Tuesday, allowing Alabama driver license holders to be allowed to renew online a second time during a 12-year period. Until now, driver license holders were limited to one online renewal every eight years. As part of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) commitment to public safety, and in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the agency’s Driver License Division has temporarily expanded its online renewal process at www.alea.gov. Customers who renewed their Alabama driver licenses using ALEA’s online system prior to the pandemic may now renew a second time during the next four years. “COVID-19 has presented many challenges in our daily lives. As we work tirelessly to mitigate the spread of the virus in our state and to offer some relief to our citizens, I am proud that ALEA will be enabling more online driver license renewals,” Ivey said. “In Alabama, we want to lift burdens and ensure the health and safety of every Alabamian. This extension is certainly an effort to help do just that.” Since COVID-19 began to affect Alabama citizens, ALEA has, on more than one occasion, modified its Driver License Division operations to ensure the health and safety of both its customers and employees. “We are pleased to offer this extension to ease the minds of customers with health-related concerns during this precarious time, as well as reduce the number of in-person transactions at ALEA’s’s Driver License Examining Offices, county probate, and license commissioners” offices,” added ALEA’s’s Secretary Hal Taylor.
Countdown begins for Alabama STAR ID requirement
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey on Tuesday urged people to update their driver’s licenses to STAR ID, which will be required next year for air travel. Ivey and Alabama Law Enforcement Secretary Hal Taylor held a press conference on the steps of the Alabama Capitol urging people to get the STAR ID if they think they will need it. STAR ID is Alabama’s version of the federal Real ID program that required states to upgrade the security of their driver’s licenses. Starting Oct. 1, 2020, people will need the upgraded IDs — or a passport — to board domestic flights. It will also be needed to enter certain federal buildings. “The federal deadline is one year from today,” Ivey said Tuesday. “Y’all let’s not wait to the last minute. Please obtain your STAR ID today.” Ivey said it will be earlier for people to get the STAR ID instead of having to remember to carry a passport every time they fly. The governor held up a copy of her license showing the gold star that identifies it as Real-ID compliant. Taylor said about 450,000 people in Alabama have gotten a STAR ID. People will need to show several documents to verify identity, date of birth, Social Security number and address of principal residence to get a STAR ID. A list can be found with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website . People will need to go to an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency driver’s license office, instead of a probate license office, to get the STAR ID identification. Locations and hours are available on the agency’s website. Ivey said her office will be doing multiple reminders over the next year. Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.
Kay Ivey elevates two acting cabinet agency heads to permanent roles at ALEA, Conservation Dept.
Governor Kay Ivey on Friday announced she has elevated Hal Taylor and Chris Blankenship from their roles as acting cabinet agency heads to permanent roles. Taylor is the permanent Secretary of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), and Blankenship is now the permanent Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “Since I appointed Chris Blankenship as Acting Conservation Commissioner and Hal Taylor as Acting ALEA Secretary, both men have proven beyond any doubt their abilities to effectively lead their respective agencies,” Ivey said in a news release. “I am proud to appoint both men to serve permanently in their particular roles.” Taylor had been acting secretary of ALEA since April 12, when he replaced Stan Stabler, a Bentley-era appointee who Ivey required to resign upon taking office. Prior to that he served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for the State Bureau of Investigations and ALEA Chief of Staff beginning in 2014. Before that, Taylor worked for the ABC Board going back to 1992. There he held multiple positions, including executive security and Assistant Director of the Enforcement Division. “Alabama’s law enforcement efforts must be handled with precision and integrity; Hal Taylor’s leadership ensures that happens. Hal is ably leading the men and women who serve our state as part of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, and I am thankful for his continued efforts,” Ivey commented. Blakenship was appointed as Acting Conservation Commissioner a little over two months ago on June 1. Before that, he served as the Deputy Commissioner and as Director of DCNR Marine Resources Division from 2011 to 2017. He has worked at the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources since 1994 when he was hired as a Conservation Enforcement Officer. “From effectively working to extend the Red Snapper season, to protecting Alabama’s natural resources, Chris Blankenship has made it clear he can lead the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources long-term,” Ivey added. “I am proud to have Chris as part of my team.” Both Blankenship and Taylor were officially sworn in on Friday morning in a private ceremony at the State Capitol in Montgomery.
Kay Ivey accepts Stan Stabler’s resignation, installs Hal Taylor as Acting Secretary of ALEA
The Office of the Governor announced Wednesday newly sworn-in Gov. Kay Ivey has accepted the resignation of Stan Stabler, who replaced Spencer Collier as Secretary of Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) in March 2016. Stabler, along with the 21 agency leaders of former Gov. Robert Bentley‘s cabinet, were required to submit letters of resignation by Ivey on Tuesday. Following Stabler’s resignation, Ivey named Hal Taylor as Acting Secretary of the ALEA. “Hal Taylor is a man of the utmost integrity who I trust during this time of transition to help in my vision of improving Alabama’s image,” stated Ivey. “I also thank the hundreds of men and women in our state law enforcement ranks who work every day to protect us.” Having most recently served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for the State Bureau of Investigations and ALEA Chief of Staff beginning in 2014, Taylor had previously worked for the ABC Board going back to 1992. There he held multiple positions, including executive security and then assistant director of the Enforcement Division. “Governor Ivey has a significant task to steady the ship of state, and I’m thankful she has entrusted me with the duty of leading our state law enforcement agency,” weighed-in Taylor. “Our troopers, SBI investigators, support staff, and others at ALEA are top-notch, and it’s an honor to work with them in this new capacity.” Ivey intends to conduct a thorough search for a permanent ALEA Secretary.
Alabama officials stress preparedness in shooting situations
Law enforcement officials in Alabama are making a point for training and preparedness in shooting situations. Alabama Law Enforcement Agency leaders said about 67 percent of law enforcement officers in the state have been trained for active-shooter situations, the TimesDaily reported. That number is up from the approximately 30 percent reported in early 2013. Active shooter situations are different than other emergencies. “It’s the way the call comes in,” said Col. John Richardson, director of public safety. “Most likely, in an active shooter, you’re going to get numerous 911 calls back to back, and you’re going to have someone with probably a high-powered long rifle or fully automatic handgun, and they’re injuring and killing multiple people.” Richardson and other officials spoke about preparedness in the wake of last week’s mass shooting in California. They also demonstrated the computerized training simulator that mimics a workplace shooting with multiple victims and an active shooter. He said the way law enforcement responds to these situations has changed. ALEA Chief of Staff Hal Taylor said this week the average active-shooter situation lasts about 12 minutes or less, which is the average response time for law enforcement in Alabama. Taylor says approximately 10,600 officers who have so far received the training include county sheriff’s deputies and municipal police. “We’re prepared for everything. Anything from a ballgame to a Talladega race,” Taylor said. “Anything that’s big, we’re going to have people there.” ALEA has taught about 18,000 Alabamians the “Run, Hide, Fight” program in case of shootings. Several college campuses within the state are trying to continue to upgrade safety measures. The Alabama State Department of Education encourages “Run, Hide, Fight” training for schools, as well as coordination with local law enforcement. All schools are required to have safety plans. Republished with permission of the Associated Press.
