Daphne police officers made multiple arrests relating to alcohol including driving under the influence of alcohol.
Aaron McKay Ragsdale was initially stopped by police on April 1, 2026, at 11:30 for a traffic infraction and found that the driver was also intoxicated. Ragsdale was charged with Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol and transported to the Daphne Justice Center.
Alan Ryan Sawrey was arrested for Driving Under the Influence after police stopped him on US 98 near Walmart for a traffic infraction on April 2nd, 2026, at around 10:30 p.m.
Daphne police officers conducted a traffic stop on Jason Carl Parlee at 12:30 a.m., April 4, 2026 and the officer found Parlee to be driving impaired He has been charged with Driving Under the Influence. (Alcohol)
Police also arrested William Jason Northcutt on April 4, 2026, at approximately 1:45 a.m. on US 98 in daphne.
Northcutt was charged with Driving Under the Influence (Alcohol) and taken to the Daphne jail.
On April 4, 2026, at around 3:12 a.m., Daphne police charged Ryan Mark Hensley with Public Intoxication in the 7000 block of Park Dr.
Five arrests involving public intoxication were made on April 5th, 2026, including multiple arrests at the Top of the Bay bar located in the 20,000 block of US Highway 98 in Daphne.
Jeffrey Foster Hudson was charged with Resisting Arrest.
Alberta Beatrice Fillingim has been charged with Public Intoxication.
Jonathan Hoffman Salter was also charged with Public Intoxication.
Meagan Lashay England was also charged with Public Intoxication during the same incident.
The Daphne police also conducted a traffic infraction stop on April 4, 2026, at around 2:33 a.m. on Frederick Blvd. The driver was later identified as Marc Garrett Posey. Police report that Posey was driving under the influence and that he was arrested.
Police also reported that on April 5th, 2026, at approximately 11:49 p.m., Shaun Michael Ryan was stopped at N. Main Street At Van Buren Street for a traffic infraction and was found to be impaired. Police charged him with Driving Under the Influence (Alcohol)
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
GULF SHORES, Ala. You stop at a local business, go inside and make a purchase and then decide to walk next door to grab lunch and when you return, you find that your vehicle isn’t where you have parked it. You look around to make sure you haven’t parked it in a different parking space and then walk inside to ask if the employees know what happened to your vehicle and you’re told that it has been towed for trespassing.
You explain that you’re a customer and that you just went to grab lunch and they apologize but say that their signs restrict parking to 15 minutes and when he walked off their property, a towing service towed his vehicle. The towing service patrols various properties, enforcing their client’s parking rules and now the owner of the vehicle owes the towing company $215.00
Is this even legal?
Nationwide, in almost every town and city, private companies can boot a vehicle or tow it off private property under certain conditions which usually includes: a. having clear signage posted that includes parking limits b. the phone number of the towing/booting company c. in some areas, the ordinance number
Towing and booting companies are also restricted in some jurisdictions as to the maximum amount that can be charged for towing or booting a vehicle and that can be different from one city to the next.
In Alabama, a private property owner or property manager may contract with a towing or booting company who is licensed and insured according to either state statute or the local ordinances of that town or city. Currently there is no state law covering private property towing services in Alabama however many city jurisdictions have passed local laws covering this subject.
Property owners in Alabama can remove unauthorized vehicles from their land, but they must follow state regulations to avoid liability. Under Alabama Code 35-12-90, private property owners or their agents can request a towing company to remove unlawfully parked or abandoned vehicles. This applies to locations like apartment complexes, business parking lots, and residential driveways.
Signage is a key factor in determining whether a vehicle can be lawfully towed. While Alabama does not impose a statewide requirement for warning signs, many municipalities require visible postings in parking lots or restricted areas. Cities like Huntsville and Mobile mandate clear signage stating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense. If required signage is absent, a vehicle owner may have grounds to challenge the tow.
Once a vehicle is removed, it must be taken to a licensed storage facility where the owner can reclaim it upon payment of towing and storage fees. If a vehicle remains unclaimed for a set period, it may be sold to recover costs. However, any sale must follow strict legal procedures, including notifying lienholders and conducting a public auction.
Tow trucks or booting companies can not arbitrarily impound a vehicle without having permission from the property owner or manager and they cannot act on anyone else’s behalf that has no authority of the landowner or manager. A security guard contracted to a business, apartment complex or other private property often has the authority to have vehicles removed from the property for trespassing or violating certain property parking rules including inoperable or abandoned vehicles.
While predatory towing nationwide and locally can be a problem, if the property is private land, any owner or authorized person can have a vehicle towed for trespassing or violating the property parking rules.
Parking in many areas of the beach communities and in area apartments come at a premium and many business owners and property managers will have vehicles towed for trespassing, parking on the grass, or in a fire lane, blocking in other vehicles or for other parking violations.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
MOBILE, AL. The new Mobile arena officially has a name “Regions Arena according to the news release below:
The City of Mobile and Oak View Group (OVG), the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, today introduced Regions Bank as the naming rights partner for Mobile’s new, highly anticipated sports and entertainment destination. The newly named 10,000-seat Regions Arena is scheduled to open in early 2027.
As part of the agreement, Regions Bank will also become the Official Banking Partner of Regions Arena, the Mobile Convention Center, and Saenger Theater, as well as the Official Banking Partner for the new Mobile Hockey Team, scheduled to begin play at the venue with the 2027-28 season.
“This announcement is about more than a name — it’s about what we’re building together for the future of Mobile. We’re proud to partner with Regions Bank, an institution that has long been part of this community and believes in where our city is headed,” said Mobile Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis. “Regions Arena will be a place where Mobilians will gather for generations to come and where visitors can experience the best of our city.”
For Regions Bank, the investment aligns with a long-standing focus on strengthening communities through both financial services and civic engagement. The bank has served Mobile and the surrounding area for generations, supporting people, families, and businesses while playing an active role in local development efforts.
“It’s only natural for Regions Bank to make this investment. There’s no other place quite like Mobile, Alabama. And there’s no other company that serves Mobile quite like Regions,” said Bruner Binion, Mobile Market President for Regions Bank. “Our mission is to make life better for the communities we serve. This lasting investment will help bring people together, create opportunity, and support continued growth across the Gulf Coast for years to come.”
Oak View Group, which will manage the venue, secured the multi-year partnership on behalf of the City of Mobile through its Global Partnerships division. OVG also manages the Mobile Convention Center and Saenger Theater, representing an integrated partnership model that brings together venue management, hospitality, and global partnerships across the market.
“We’ve built a strong relationship with the City of Mobile, and we’re proud to welcome Regions Bank into a shared vision for the future of live entertainment in the city,” said Peter Luukko, Co-Chairman, Oak View Group. “Regions Arena will play an important role in bringing new events and momentum to the community, and we’re excited to see its impact take shape.”
“Securing Regions Bank as our naming rights partner is a significant milestone for this project and a reflection of the opportunity in Mobile,” added Dan Griffis, President, Oak View Group Global Partnerships. “Our partnership with Regions Bank is especially meaningful because of their commitment to community service and financial empowerment. We are dedicated to making our communities better places to live, and Regions Arena will further our mission of bringing people together through the power of live entertainment.”
Once completed in 2027, Regions Arena will be perfectly suited for live concerts, family shows, and sporting events, including ice hockey. Designed with local culture in mind, the venue will also support Mobile’s longstanding Mardi Gras traditions while providing a modern platform to attract major touring acts. Beyond events, the arena is expected to serve as a year-round gathering place that supports local businesses, creates jobs, and expands access to live entertainment for residents and visitors.
“Regions Arena is set to become a premier destination for unforgettable experiences, bringing people together through music, sports, and community pride,” said Erik Hudson, General Manager of Regions Arena. “Regions Arena will play a vital role in energizing the Southeast footprint, and we look forward to opening this great venue next year.”
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
MOBILE, AL. The Mobile Police Department responded to a call within our jurisdiction for a subject who was brought to AltaPointe Health by a neighboring law enforcement agency late Monday afternoon.
Through the course of AltaPointe’s thorough intake measures, the staff realized right away the subject was not who he claimed to be. It was discovered that he gave the previous law enforcement agency false information.
Once their suspicions were heightened, the Mobile Police Department was notified immediately. Mobile police officers responded and were able to properly identify the subject as Lee Collins III who is wanted on two counts of murder in Louisiana.
We notified the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, and they are coming to Mobile to interview the subject and begin the process of having him extradited back to Louisiana.
The Department of Public Safety’s partnership with AltaPointe Health remains strong, and the staff knew immediately what action to take when contacting us for assistance. Their fast thinking and calm demeanor helped bring this to a quick resolution.
No additional information will be released and the Louisiana law enforcement will take the lead on this case.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
FAIRHOPE, Ala. The Eastern Shore Business and Home Expo, a community-focused event highlighting commerce, innovation and connection across Baldwin County will be held at the Fairhope Civic Center on Thursday, April 30th, 2026.
This event is scheduled from noon until 4:30 p.m. and will feature a variety of vendors and exhibitors.
Organizers say the event will bring together companies and community members for an afternoon centered on collaboration, networking and growth and will showcase the range and strength of businesses throughout the Eastern Shore.
The event is free and open to the public, offering residents and visitors an accessible way to learn more about the region’s economic landscape and the services available to them.
Attendees will have the chance to meet business owners face to face, explore new products and services and develop relationships within the local business community.
In addition to the exhibitor floor, the expo will feature a series of breakout sessions led by local experts and industry professionals. The sessions are designed to provide practical insights, educational opportunities and inspiration for both business owners and attendees, covering topics relevant to today’s marketplace.
Participating vendors will also be invited to a VIP Happy Hour immediately following the event, creating an additional setting for networking and partnership building in a more informal environment.
Organizers say that booth space remains available for businesses interested in participating, with options designed to accommodate companies of varying sizes.
The event is presented by Southern View Media.
For more information and a complete FAQ, visit www.easternshorebusiness.com.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. An Alabama State Trooper attempted to stop a motorcycle for several moving violations Monday evening at around 7:40 p.m., April 6th, 2026, but the driver fled leading police on a pursuit.
As the trooper continued the chase that went along Schillinger Road passing Airpark Drive, Ziegler Blvd and the motorcyclist continued attempting to evade police. Several law enforcement agencies joined the trooper to attempt to get the driver stopped. The driver even turned off his lights, driving in the dark and at one point went against traffic, going head on with other drivers.
The pursuit continued for about twenty-five minutes and at one point it looked like the biker was attempting to flee into Mississippi but crashed before making it to the state line.
Jordan B Balthaser then ran into the wood line but was quickly apprehend by law enforcement officers and taken into custody. Balthaser received minor injuries and was treated by EMS.
Police also determined that the motorcycle that he was driving had been reported stolen.
Balthaser faces a laundry list of charges including:
Receiving Stolen Property 1st -Degree Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance- Felony Reckless Endangerment Attempting to Elude-Felony Improper Lane Change Driving-No Lights Driving Under the Influence Open Alcohol Beverage Improper Lane Change Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Balthaser is currently in the Mobile County Metro Jail and being held without bond.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
FAIRHOPE, Ala. It’s no secret that as cities within Baldwin County continue to attract new residents and their populations continue to explode that some have split from the Baldwin County School System to begin their own locally controlled school board.
In Baldwin County, Gulf Shores formed their own school board in 2019. Gulf Shores Mayor Kraft and other city leaders had done their homework, worked through some studies and listened to experts and made a decision that controlling their own funds and their own destination that being self-governed would be best for Gulf Shores.
To no one’s surprise, another fast-growing beach city, Orange Beach, followed in 2022.
While most communities in Baldwin County are small enough to need the finances and other support that a county school system brings, several other areas including Fairhope could more than likely step away from the county and form their own school system. Fairhope continues to grow expediently through grass roots efforts as well as annexing property sitting outside of their city limits.
In recent years, Fairhope actively focused on bringing in surrounding areas to manage growth and utility services, including approving a 14-acre parcel on Twin Beach Road in late 2025. The city passed an ordinance in 2024 requiring property owners to petition for annexation to connect to the municipal water system, aiming to control development density. Currently two new developments sitting on the outskirts of their city limits are being eyed for annexation including a project, which includes restaurants, an 18-hole golf course and more than 300 homes near the Fairhope-Barnwell line on a large piece of property off Greeno Road could be next to be brought into the Fairhope fold.
The property straddles property along Monk Road and County Road 3 just east of County Road 1.
The steady growth brings various streams of revenue for such cities including a strong tax base that could support establishing their own school system.
Two studies have examined the possibility. One was commissioned by the city, the other by a citizens group. Their conclusions differ sharply. The city’s study says a millage increase would be required to launch a Fairhope school system. The citizens group says it can be done without raising taxes. But Mayor Sherry Sullivan has said that a decision has not yet been made but the door is open.
Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan said any decision is far from being made.
“There are a lot more conversations to be had before anything is decided on this,” she said. “It could drastically split our community.”
Both studies showed a little different result, including one that was done by Birmingham-based Criterion Consulting LLC that suggests new taxes would be required.
In their study, $7.6 million in new property taxes through a 10.37-mill increase. For a $300,000 home, that would mean about $300 more per year.
Scenario 2: Limits capital expenses to maintenance projects. It would require $4 million in new taxes, or a 5.47-mill increase.
The group was paid $25,000 for the study.
Fairhope residents have contributed significant annual revenues to the Baldwin County School System which, if Fairhope separates to form their own school system, that money would be lost.
As with the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach school systems, Fairhope would be starting much like a new business start-up with many various capital expenditures to fund the school system, including payroll, various equipment and possibly a new school to keep up with the student enrollments.
Fairhope would acquire $35.5 million in debt from the county system, though city officials and the citizens group question that figure because the county uses a pay-as-you-go construction model financed through a countywide sales tax.
Taxation and starting over is something that longtime Fairhope residents may not get on board with while newcomers and the business community may see more advantages than problems.
Only 55% of students in the Fairhope feeder pattern live inside city limits. J. Larry Newton Elementary School would be most affected. Of its 754 students, only 136 live in the city. Under a city system, only 18% of the building would be utilized if limited to city residents.
“I think that is a thing that worries a lot of folks,” Sullivan said. “You will have people that will have to pay to come into our system. Even if you grandfathered them in, they would still have to pay. They would have to pay a fee due to not being within our city limits. Some won’t be able to afford that. What does that look like?”
Other school systems who have broken away from county systems have found that like any business, there are advantages and disadvantages, initial funding being an initial concern. But like the beach community cities here have found out, there are also many freedoms, and a the rewards of controlling your own destiny and that of the school’s students that seem to make the move a win.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
DAPHNE, Ala. If you live in Daphne or regularly travel the State Highway 181 and County Road corridor, you know how thick travel is and how many accidents occur in that stretch of road almost daily.
Well, now, that area is about to triple its congestion, traffic and the area population.
A project that has been in the works for a while may soon receive final approval from the Daphne City Council on April 6, 2026.
A huge project known as Italian Village, is planned near Highway 181 and County Road 64 and would include a Neighborhood Walmart and luxury apartments and could begin construction by this summer.
Daphne Mayor Robin LeJeune says this specific area has been missing a full grocery store, which is something the development is expected to provide on a 35 acre parcel of land that will also include stylish apartments in an Italian-inspired design, which developers say reflects the city’s history.
“It’s going to be heavily landscaped. We have an archway entrance feature leading up into the project off 181. It’s going to be a very neat project,” Vice President of Development for Trotman Company, Charlie Trotman Jr., said.
“It’s going to bring anywhere from 300 to 350 new jobs, not counting construction jobs. It’s bringing tax, sales tax to the city,” said Trotman.
While all of this sounds like it could be a good fit in that area, others who commute through that area already say that the traffic is a nightmare and traffic collisions happen at that intersection more often than one might think.
But the developers say traffic improvements are part of the plan.
“We’re going to add a traffic signal on Highway 64,” Trotman said. “Add an accel and decel lanes on 181 and 64; we’re improving the roundabout at County Road 13 and 64.”
“So we’re doing a lot of things to improve the traffic. I know that’s a big component here to this project,” he continued.
Mayor LeJeune said those improvements were required as part of the process.
LeJeune believes the project will get a green light, add jobs to the area and be a property that will fit into the area.
If approved, construction on the Neighborhood Walmart could begin as early as this summer.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. Sheriff investigators have arrested an Elberta man who is accused of trying to entice an underage girl on social media.
The Robertsdale Police Department contacted the Sheriff’s Office in March of this year after they determined that a 19-year-old man, later identified as Julio Perez Jr. had contacted a 15-year-old girl through Snapchat.
Investigators with the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Department were able to verify that Perez picked the girl up from Florida and took her to his home in Elberta, where “both parties admitted engaging in unlawful sexual acts.
Perez has been charged with multiple crimes after the joint investigation with the Robertsdale Police Department into the sexual exploitation of a minor.
Investigators met with Perez April 1 for a formal interview, at which time he was arrested and charged with second-degree rape, second-degree sodomy and traveling to meet a child for an unlawful sex act.
More charges could be added as the investigation continues, according to sheriff investigators.
Parents are urged to be aware of what their children are doing online.
“Social media and messaging platforms can expose minors to individuals who may misrepresent themselves or attempt exploitation,” the release said. “Adults should regularly review their children’s online use, understand which applications they are accessing, and remain aware of who their children are interacting with.”
Anyone who believes they know someone who has been victimized should contact law enforcement immediately.
“The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office and its partners in law enforcement are committed to continuing their efforts to identify and apprehend individuals who engage in illegal activities online and to ensure the safety and well-being of all children,” the release said.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
FAIRHOPE, Ala. Another first for Fairhope now allows a big box store to sell liquor instead of just beer and wine.
No, this is not just another April Fool’s joke!
The Fairhope city council has voted to allow the Walmart Supercenter store on State Highway 181 and CR 48 to sell liquor and will issue them a liquor license.
One of the peculiar things that we noticed about the new ‘Liquor Box’ package store is that it could be destined to be placed right up front, possibly where the McDonald’s restaurant once stood or in another prime spot close to the front doors, making it easy for thieves to snatch and run.
This venture is only the second one in an Alabama Walmart store with the first one being in Tuscaloosa.
The timeline for opening the new addition has not been determined yet.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. Police in several areas of the country have begun sending alerts to parents giving them a heads-up about a new challenge where children are consuming large quantities of over the county medicine that could make them very ill and even lead to death.
Known as the “Benadryl Challenge,” police described it as taking excessive amounts of diphenhydramine (DPH) and similar OTC medications in an attempt to induce hallucinations. Diphenhydramine is the active ingredient found in Benadryl.
Police added that participants are being encouraged to take up to 12 tablets or more at once.
The maximum recommended dose in a 24-hour period is six tablets for children ages 6-12 while children who are ages 12 and older/adults are advised to take a maximum of 12.
Taking more than the recommended amount can lead to nausea, seizures and death.
Below is a list of symptoms of a diphenhydramine overdose in different parts of the body:
BLADDER AND KIDNEYS
Inability to urinate
EYES, EARS, NOSE, MOUTH, AND THROAT
Blurred vision
Dry mouth
Enlarged pupils
Very dry eyes
Ringing in the ears
HEART AND BLOOD VESSELS
Low blood pressure
Rapid heartbeat
NERVOUS SYSTEM
Agitation
Confusion
Seizures
Delirium
Depression
Drowsiness
Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
Increased sleepiness
Nervousness
Tremor
Unsteadiness
SKIN
Dry, red skin
STOMACH AND INTESTINES
Nausea
Vomiting
Any of these symptoms can cause a child serious medical issues or in some cases death and they will need immediate emergency care
Call 911 if you come across anyone experiencing these symptoms and get them to an emergency room immediately.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
GULF SHORES, Ala. Police arrests during spring break this year have more than doubled the arrests made during the same time last year.
According to police records, just under one hundred arrests were made last year while almost two hundred arrests have been made so far this year.
One of the concerning facts during this year’s spring break is that more guns are being carried by teenagers coming to the beach and there have been more incidents of firearms being brandished.
Gulf Shores police, along with ALEA and several other local police agencies converged on an area of the beach after officers spotted illegal activities and made eighteen arrests on the afternoon of March 11, 2026. Those 18 face 23 charges, including illegal possession of firearms, drug-related offenses, and obstructing governmental operations. Of the six firearms that were recovered, the individuals arrested could not legally possess them. One firearm was reported to have been stolen.
One of the other observations made by our staff is that some of those engaged in the spring break activities appear to be older and from the license plates on vehicles being driven, are local to the area.
Two “open house” parties netted police over 150 arrests with others escaping the long arm of the law.
Recently Daytona Beach saw 133 arrests & 4 shootings in one weekend. Okaloosa County Florida law enforcement has made over 209 arrests in a matter of days recently and beach communities in other states have seen complete take-overs of their beaches and near riot conditions.
Each year, nationwide, spring break is becoming completely out of control and more difficult for local law enforcement to keep under control and along Alabama’s beaches, we are beginning to see a similar trend.
In recent years, there have been several shootings in Gulf Shores during spring break and if this year’s incidents and arrests are any indication of the progression of issues that spring break could bring each year, it may be time to tighten control, add for law enforcement to the beaches and follow the broken window theory which enforces small crimes in order to prevent bigger crimes.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
MONTGOMERY, AL. A multi-law enforcement task force working to get guns and drugs off the streets in the Montgomery area have made a large bust recently.
The local office of the FBI and other agents recently made dozens of arrests, confiscating firearms and an assortment of drugs and dozens of arrests according to the FBI.
The FBI, working with state, local and federal agencies, announced the results of “Operation Southern Star,” a VIPER surge initiative.
According to law enforcement, the operation resulted in 63 arrests, 52 weapons recovered, 40 drug seizures and $10,341 in currency seized.
Authorities described the effort as a coordinated operation that combined intelligence sharing, enforcement operations and community outreach involving all levels of area law enforcement and federal law enforcement partners.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
FOLEY, Ala. The owners of OWA is mapping out their next big development in Foley, though it might be what one might expect.
OWA Parks & Resort in Foley is looking to develop a new project, The Waters at OWA.
The Waters at OWA would be a multi-family development on 150 acres north of North OWA Boulevard and west of the Foley Beach Express in Foley, according to city planning.
This development will be upscale and full of amenities and convenience to the shopping, restaurants and the beach.
OWA Parks & Resort in Foley, Alabama, said that they are exploring a 150-acre multi-family residential project called The Waters at OWA.
This project, which is in the early stages, would be located north of the existing entertainment complex and west of the Foley Beach Express. The development aims to diversify OWA’s revenue streams and make the overall destination more appealing to a wider range of visitors to Alabama’s Gulf Coast region.
OWA is a family entertainment destination featuring more than 20 rides and attractions developed and operated by the Porch Band of Creek Indians.
More information is planned to be released in the upcoming weeks.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
By Digital Media Team Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News
MONTGOMERY AL. — Twelve individuals were honored Thursday, March 26, during the Secretary of Alabama Law Enforcement’s Life-Saving Awards Ceremony at Headquarters in Montgomery, recognizing extraordinary actions taken to protect and preserve life across the state.
The recipients representing multiple divisions within the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), were recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty in critical moments, delivering lifesaving aid, preventing tragedy and demonstrating the Agency’s unwavering commitment to public safety. Two of the honorees included FBI Special Agents assigned to ALEA’s Metro Area Crime Suppression (MACS) Unit, highlighting the strength of ALEA’s state and federal partnerships.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor presented each recipient with their award while Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS), State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Director Chris Inabinett, Administrative Bureau Director, Captain Jeremy Burkett and Protective Services Division Chief Wayne Mackey shared details of each recipient’s lifesaving actions within their respective Division. Special guests included Sara Jones, Special Agent in
Charge of the FBI’s Mobile Field Office, and family members of the award recipients.
“These awards represent the very best of what our law enforcement professionals do every day, and often without recognition,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said. “Today, we honor the actions we know about, but there are countless others that never make headlines. I am incredibly proud of these men and women who stepped forward in critical moments to save lives. I also want to sincerely thank their families, because behind every one of these individuals is a support system that makes tremendous sacrifices. It is not easy to watch your loved one walk out the door each day into uncertainty, but their strength and support make this mission possible. Together, they represent the heart of public safety in Alabama.”
Life-Saving Award Recipients and Shortened Summaries:
Pilot Carswell (Montgomery County) On Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, Pilot Carswell responded to a crash along Mobile Highway in Montgomery involving a vehicle that struck a power pole, overturned and caught fire. Pilot Carswell immediately began fire suppression efforts and remained engaged until the flames were extinguished. He also assisted firefighters during extrication by helping keep the vehicle cooled. His decisive actions significantly reduced the risk to the occupants and helped prevent fatalities.
Senior Trooper Woodruff (Autauga County) On Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, Senior Trooper Woodruff responded to a shooting in Prattville and assisted with a gunshot victim. Sr. Trooper Woodruff quickly administered first aid, applying a clotting agent and direct pressure to control severe bleeding. His rapid actions helped stabilize the victim and were critical in preserving life.
Trooper Arnold (Houston County)
On Friday, June 6, 2025, Trooper Arnold encountered a critical situation on a bridge in Houston County where a family was attempting to prevent a loved one from jumping. Trooper Arnold quickly intervened, safely pulling the individual away from danger and maintaining control until help arrived. His actions directly prevented a tragedy.
Trooper Barton (Covington County)
On Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, during a traffic stop in Covington County, Trooper Barton learned a passenger was suffering severe bleeding. Trooper Barton immediately applied a tourniquet to stop life-threatening blood loss until EMS arrived. His quick thinking was instrumental in saving the victim’s life.
Trooper Henley (Montgomery County)
On Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, Trooper Henley responded to a crash at Perry Hill Road and Beth Manor Drive in Montgomery. He identified a victim with a severe leg injury and significant blood loss and quickly applied a tourniquet. His immediate intervention helped save the individual’s life.
Senior Trooper Walker (Dallas County)
On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Senior Trooper Walker conducted a traffic stop in Dallas County that escalated when two-armed individuals fled. Through quick coordination with local law enforcement, a suspect was located within minutes and found to be in possession of a stolen firearm and an illegal machine gun conversion device. Senior Trooper Walker’s actions helped remove a dangerous individual and illegal weapons from the community.
Special Agent Wasden (Butler County)
On Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, Special Agent Wasden, who was a Senior Trooper assigned to ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division at the time, overheard a call for medical assistance in Butler County and responded immediately. He located an unresponsive driver and began rendering aid. Special Agent Wasden provided lifesaving care until EMS arrived and continued assisting by manually ventilating the patient so medics could focus on advanced treatment. His swift response and continued efforts to assist medics were instrumental in saving the individual’s life.
MACS Unit & Federal Partners (Montgomery County)
Three ALEA Special Agents assigned to the MACS Unit, along with two FBI Special Agents, were recognized for their actions on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, in Montgomery. While conducting a traffic stop, the team identified an individual experiencing an opioid overdose and immediately administered Narcan, successfully reviving the individual.
During the same incident, Agents quickly identified and located the individual responsible for distributing the narcotics. The suspect attempted to conceal a firearm and was found in possession of multiple illegal substances before being taken into custody. The incident highlights the team’s ability to seamlessly transition from enforcement to lifesaving care and back to investigative action, ultimately saving a life while removing a dangerous career offender from the community.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
The following persons have recently been arrested by Daphne Police for DUI or drug offenses after committing traffic offenses and subsequent traffic stops.
Derek Andrew Perry Date/Time: 03/22/2026 – 00:37 Offense: Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol Location:US Highway Eastern Shore Motel
Turner Hayes Helton Date/Time: 03/22/2026 – 02:14 Offense: Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol Location: US Hwy 98 @ Walmart Dr., Daphne, AL
Brian Chase Edwards Date/Time: 03/23/2026 – 01:53 Offense: Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol Location: US Hwy 98 (Whiskey Bay Bar & Grill)
William Jeffery Eklund Date/Time: 03/23/2026 – 04:29 Offense: Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol Location: US Hwy 98 @ Van Buren St.
Elizabeth Brooke Gosa Date/Time: 03/25/2026 – 16:47 Offense: Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs Location: US Hwy XX @ Walmart Dr.
John Jacobs Drake Date/Time: 03/27/2026 – 01:45 Offense: Methamphetamine-Possess Location: State Hwy 181 @ Pleasant Rd., Daphne, AL
Trevor Dean Mckinney Date/Time: 03/27/2026 – 21:33 Offense: Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol Location: 8000 block of Irwin Loop
Raymond Julian Langley Date/Time: 03/28/2026 – 21:35 Offense: Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol Location: Pollard Rd. @ Eagle Creek
All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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MOBILE Ala. The hurricane weather updates from NOAA’s National Hurricane Center will look a bit different starting with the 2026 hurricane season.
In previous years, the center concentrated mainly on coastal regions unless storms were destined to push inland causing severe weather conditions.
But this year, NOAA is implementing major updates to how it communicates storm threats including areas inland that could be impacted by a storm.
The agency is introducing an improved forecast cone graphic. Officials say these improvements are meant to help more people understand and prepare for dangerous weather. The updates impact both coastal and inland communities.
They include a redesigned tropical cyclone forecast cone and new storm surge watches and warnings for the Hawaiian Islands. Additionally, a new experimental version of the cone graphic will be introduced this year.
“These improvements empower communities to prepare earlier and more effectively for dangerous hazards from tropical storms and hurricanes,” said Michael Brennan, director of NOAA’s National Hurricane Center.
One of the most significant changes to the standard forecast cone is the addition of inland watches and warnings. In previous years, the cone graphic mainly focused on coastal areas. Starting in 2026, it will display tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings for inland regions across the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The change follows a successful experimental phase last year. That trial showed that the updated graphic helped people living away from the coast better understand the dangers posed by tropical cyclone winds. The results gave forecasters confidence to make the change permanent for this season.
The updated cone now uses a uniform shading style for the entire five-day outlook area. A new legend will display symbols indicating locations with both a hurricane watch and a tropical storm warning simultaneously. These areas will be marked with diagonal pink and blue lines on the graphic.
The National Hurricane Center is also introducing a new experimental cone graphic this season. The original cone has been used since 2002 and indicates where the storm is most likely to go based on past forecast errors. The new experimental version will alter how that uncertainty is shown.
Instead of using circles at each forecast point, the new experimental cone will use ellipses. This shape allows forecasters to show uncertainty in both the speed and direction of a storm’s path. The experimental cone will also cover 90% of possible forecast tracks, compared to the traditional 67% used in the standard cone.
The experimental graphics will be accessible on hurricanes.gov alongside regular and intermediate advisories. However, officials noted that technical issues could occasionally affect whether the graphic is available or posted on time during the experimental phase.
The National Hurricane Center is also expanding its storm surge tools to include Hawaii for the first time. The new products feature storm surge watches and warnings, along with a peak storm surge graphic for the Hawaiian Islands. These tools are already used along the U.S. East Coast, the Gulf Coast, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This expansion means Hawaii residents will now have access to the same storm surge information as communities on the mainland.
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MONTGOMERY, Ala. A new bill making its way through Alabama’s legislative session will give police more authority to enforce speed limits even outside of their city or town’s limit.
The bill which was introduced late in the session would allow municipal police to enforce speed limits outside city limits, extending their authority into surrounding police jurisdictions. Essentially, this would mean that more than one police agency could enforce these laws in the same area.
The measure, sponsored by Rep. Kristin Nelson (R) and first read on March 19, would amend state law to permit municipalities to enforce speed limits not only within their corporate boundaries but also in adjacent areas that fall under their police jurisdiction.
With the growth of many areas of our state and the increased wrecks most often caused by speeding and reckless drivers, some law enforcement agencies say it makes sense.
Under current law, municipal law enforcement officers are limited to enforcing speed regulations strictly within city limits. The proposed change would broaden that authority, potentially increasing enforcement coverage in unincorporated areas just outside municipalities.
The bill is currently in the House Public Safety and Homeland Security committee.
If approved, the legislation would take effect Oct. 1, 2026
GULF SHORES, Ala. The Gulf Shores Police responded to complaints of a large group of teens gathering near the 2400 block of West Beach Blvd and officers responded to investigate.
According to GSPD when their officers arrived in the area, they immediately observed dozens and dozens of apparent spring breakers and as officers approached the home, a large amount of beer was poured on one of the officers from a balcony, soaking his uniform.
Over 100 people were arrested after police shut down the large house party.
This comes as 30 schools from around the country are visiting the Gulf Coast for spring break.
The Gulf Shores police said that most of the arrests involved underaged drinking and other misdemeanors.
Those arrested were from states like Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Texas, to name a few.
We have contacted GSPD to see if the homeowner was or will be charged for allowing the “Open House” party.
Under Alabama law (Code § 13A-11-10.1), it is a Class B misdemeanor for an adult to allow an “open house party” to continue if they know, or should know, that minors are consuming alcohol or drugs on their property. Adults must take reasonable steps to prevent this, with penalties including up to six months in jail and/or a $2,000 fine.
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