Written By Anthony Buckner

They say that "no community is immune to crime," but that doesn't make it any easier when it arrives on your doorstep.

A while back, Lakeland—a community known for its quiet streets and bustling family life—experienced something it wasn't used to: a spike. In a single month, we saw 34 incidents ranging from vehicle thefts to a tragic homicide. For the residents of Windward Slopes and the surrounding areas, the statistics weren't just numbers on a page; they were a disruption of their peace.

As a leader in the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, I’ve learned that when a community feels unsafe, we have two duties. First, we must enforce the law. But second, and perhaps more importantly, we must restore the comfort.

We cannot have a thriving Shelby County if our families are afraid to walk to the mailbox.

The "Surge" Strategy

When that spike hit Lakeland, my team didn't just wait for the phone to ring. We initiated a strategy that I believe is the blueprint for the future of policing in our county.

1. Data-Driven Deployment: Every week, my deputies sit down as a unified team to review every single crime in our jurisdiction. We don't just count them; we analyze them. Where are they happening? What time? What is the pattern? In Lakeland, we used this data to deploy additional patrols exactly where they were needed, flooding the zone to deter opportunity.

2. Technology as a Force Multiplier: We live in a digital age, and our safety strategy must match it. We utilized video surveillance and advanced tools to identify suspects faster. But the most powerful "camera" we have isn't one we installed—it’s yours. The residents of Lakeland stepped up, sharing home surveillance footage that became critical puzzle pieces in our investigations.

3. The Community Partnership: The residents of Windward Slopes didn't just lock their doors; they met. They came together to talk about solutions. That is the "secret sauce" of safety. You don't have to tell a community like Lakeland, "If you see something, say something." They are already engaged. They don't hesitate to call us.

The Bigger Picture for Shelby County

I share this story not to dwell on a past crime spike, but to show you how we solve problems.

The ultimate crime—homicide—leaves a scar on a community. It makes us feel uneasy. It makes me feel uneasy. But we cannot let fear dictate our future.

My commitment as a leader is simple: We will use every tool—from high-tech surveillance to old-fashioned community meetings—to prevent crime before it starts. We are not just patrolling streets; we are protecting the lifestyle that makes Shelby County home.

Safety is a team sport. And together, we are undefeated.