In a concerted effort to combat violent crime and enhance public safety, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, alongside multiple local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, executed Operation Guardian Sweep. The operation, which began on Sept. 25, resulted in 86 arrests, the seizure of significant quantities of narcotics, and the confiscation of weapons.
During the operation, authorities seized 59 grams of fentanyl, 142 grams of methamphetamine and a Glock Model 19 9mm handgun, among other items. Two suspects, Anthony Walker and Robert Clark, remain in Jefferson County Jail. Clark’s bond is set at over $3 million, while Walker is held without bond.
Sheriff Mark Pettway emphasized the importance of community collaboration in ensuring public safety. “True security is a community wide effort,” he said. “It’s built on a foundation of trust, communication, and most importantly, partnership.”
The operation involved 180 law enforcement personnel and resulted in 1,870 vehicle stops, 221 citations and 696 warnings issued. The initiative also included 88 sex offender notifications and verifications.
David R. Fitzgibbons, special agent in charge of the FBI Birmingham Division, highlighted the critical role of partnerships in combating crime. “Not one agency can do it alone,” he said. “By working together, we’re all able to apprehend violent criminal offenders.”…