Community Partners React To Chief Murphy’s Retirement

Crimestoppers works very closely with the Montgomery Police Department to help catch criminals in our area.

 

Tony Garrett used to work as an officer with MPD before working with the group.

He said even then, Chief Murphy was a visible sign in the community. 

 

“Before I left the police department I was in charge of the community policing bureau, and one of our primary jobs was going to the community meetings, neighborhood watches. He showed up just as many as I did and my people did. He was very active,” said Garrett.

 

Part of working with the community is comforting the victims of crimes.

 

Billy Irvin worked with Murphy on Operation Good Shepherd, a program to bring pastors and counselors to crime scenes.

 

He still remembers praying with the chief during the first graduation of the program. 

 

“He was always kind, always a kind gentleman. Always looking to put citizens first. Always asking if there’s anything he could do to help make our community any better.I think he had a lot of great accomplishments in our city,” said Irvin.

 

Both Garrett and Irvin say they’re sad to see Chief Murphy go, but they have a lot of confidence in the Montgomery Police Department moving forward. 

 

“When you put yourself out in public to be a leader, there’s always targets on your back. A great leader surrounds himself with great people and I know there’ll be a great team of people to come after his retirement,” said Irvin.

 

“I think this city, this police department is in good standing for someone to come in and keep the police in good standing and good light,” said Garrett.