CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center on Friday held its monthly community luncheon. The October event, which took place at the All Steak, focused on public safety. Special guest speakers were Cullman County District Attorney Champ Crocker, Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry and Cullman Police Chief Joey Duncan.
Crocker reported progress in reducing the county’s case backlog and improving the pace of justice since taking office. He said Aniah’s Law has allowed local courts to gain greater authority to hold violent offenders without bond, which has strengthened public safety and reduced reoffending rates. In 2024, he said, the DA’s office resolved over 10,000 cases, ranging from misdemeanors to major felonies.
Gentry said recruitment and retention remain the CCSO’s most significant challenges. The department operates with approximately 170 employees and responds to roughly 80,000 calls for service each year, but like agencies statewide, he said, it faces challenges in attracting and retaining qualified deputies.
Duncan said the Cullman Police Department faces similar pressures. He also noted the department’s new traffic enforcement unit has already helped reduce vehicle crashes and congestion within city limits.
The speakers reported an increase in crimes committed with the aid of technology, such as white-collar fraud, online scams and organized retail theft. They said out-of-state groups have targeted local banks and ATMs, while residents are frequently affected by phone and email scams. Crocker said his office has also observed an increase in large-scale retail theft operations, prompting stronger state laws and penalties.
The intersection of mental health and public safety continues to be one of the most pressing issues for local law enforcement. Duncan said the Cullman Police Department has expanded its crisis intervention training and is exploring the addition of certified mental health officers for each shift. Crocker said the DA’s office supports the county’s mental health court. Gentry said the CCSO handles multiple mental health calls and performs probate transports for individuals in crisis, often facing delays due to limited treatment facilities. There is a need for increased funding, expanded treatment centers and long-term solutions to address the issue.
The men said improved technology has enhanced cooperation among agencies. Flock Safety Security cameras and shared digital systems have become vital tools, allowing departments to monitor calls and incidents across jurisdictions in real time, assisting in recovering stolen vehicles, identifying suspects and improving response efficiency. Data retrieval systems used in crash investigations have also provided useful evidence in traffic cases.
When asked what they would do with unlimited resources, it was agreed that future investments should prioritize support for people and mental health. Increasing personnel, improving training and expanding resources for officers and prosecutors are viewed as essential steps to meet the growing demands of Cullman County. At the conclusion of the event, many expressed their gratitude to these men and the agencies that work so hard to keep Cullman County safe.
After the event, the chamber posted on its Facebook page: “Today we heard from Sheriff Matt Gentry, District Attorney Champ Crocker, and Police Chief Joey Duncan. The panel sparked an honest conversation about the challenges and progress shaping our community. Leaders discussed the top safety concerns in Cullman, emerging crime trends, and how technology is transforming prevention and response. They shared efforts to engage youth, address the connection between mental health and public safety, and rebuild trust between law enforcement and the public. Each panelist highlighted initiatives they’re proud of and reflected on how, with greater resources, they’d continue working to make Cullman a safer, stronger community for all.”
