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2h ago

Memphis Safe Task Force Begins Operations With 9 Arrests on First Day

The federally led surge launches under a Trump order, drawing legal challenges over National Guard authority.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Senator London Lamar are pictured alongside members of the Louisiana National Guard. (Photos: AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
Public safety data dashboard which launced in September (Photo by FOX 17 News)
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee speaks about the National Guard and federal agencies arriving in Memphis. He said the federal help “is not the start of a crime-fighting effort. This is the acceleration of a crime-fighting effort.” (PATRICK LANTRIP/DAILY MEMPHIAN VIA AP)
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Overview

  • The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the task force is on the ground after a large operational briefing, and officials say the Joint Operations Center is active.
  • Attorney General Pam Bondi reported nine arrests, two firearms seized, and 219 officers specially deputized on the operation’s first day.
  • The effort brings together 13 agencies and state partners; National Guard members are to be deputized by U.S. Marshals and serve in support roles without making arrests.
  • Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris argues Tennessee’s Constitution restricts deploying the Guard to Memphis, a claim that state and federal leaders have not publicly addressed in detail.
  • Officials have not provided full details on troop numbers or timelines, and reporters noted no confirmed National Guard sightings on city streets as of Monday.