On the evening of December 8, 2025, an isolated incident occurred inside the Coffee County Jail involving an inmate who was discovered unresponsive. Staff immediately initiated emergency measures, and the individual was transported to Coffee Regional Medical Center for treatment. Despite life-saving efforts, the inmate was pronounced deceased.
According to officials, the family of the individual has been notified. At the request of Sheriff Fred Cole, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has been asked to conduct a comprehensive and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.
Authorities say no additional information will be released at this time as the investigation is ongoing.
Alabama officials say 82 people were detained during a recent joint operation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), part of the state’s latest crackdown on immigration violations and noncompliance within the trucking industry.
Governor Kay Ivey announced the results of the effort, conducted by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit (MCSU) between October 27 and November 18.
ALEA targeted high-crash rural interstate corridors where commercial traffic is heaviest. During those Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) inspections, 242 people were referred to ICE for immigration checks, and 82 were detained based on their status.
Of those detained, 12 individuals had no driver license of any kind, and the rest carried out-of-state licenses.
Governor Ivey praised the operation, saying Alabama is “leading the way” in cracking down on illegal operators.
“Alabama will not look the other way while illegal immigration and illegal operators threaten the safety of our communities or undermine the integrity of our trucking industry,” Ivey said. “If you are here illegally and breaking our laws… you will be held accountable in our state.”
Alabama Trucking Association President & CEO Mark Colson echoed that sentiment, warning that noncompliant operators are exploiting loopholes and undercutting law-abiding drivers.
The operation comes as federal officials conduct a sweeping review of truck driving schools nationwide. The U.S. Transportation Department recently announced that nearly 44% of schools may not be meeting required training standards. As a result, certification for nearly 3,000 programs may be revoked if they fail to comply within 30 days, and another 4,500 schools have been warned.
At the same time, the Department of Homeland Security is auditing immigrant-owned trucking companies in California to verify driver status and commercial license qualifications.
The heightened scrutiny follows a deadly crash in Florida involving a truck driver federal officials say was not authorized to be in the U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the driver made an illegal U-turn that caused a collision killing three people, prompting renewed focus on immigrant drivers and licensing oversight.
Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service will soon begin using body cameras for certain personnel after the City Council approved a $173,000 contract with Axon Enterprises Inc. The agreement runs from Jan. 1, 2026, to Dec. 31, 2028.
Council President Wardine Alexander said the cameras will be issued mainly to fire inspectors and paramedics and will help improve incident documentation.
“This is an enhancement of an investigative process,” Alexander said, noting the cameras can reduce written reports and provide clearer visuals for investigations and insurance reviews.
She referenced the Oct. 31 Cobb Lane fire, saying body-camera footage could have offered a better record during inspections after the large blaze that destroyed historic buildings and displaced residents.
“It gives insurance companies and fire inspectors better ways to investigate — to see how this started, what was the source,” she said.
The Ozark Police Department is thrilled to share that this year’s Operation Santa Clause Toy Drive is going exceptionally well thanks to the generosity of our community. From toys to essential items, the outpouring of support has been nothing short of amazing.
Every donation helps bring joy to children and families in need this holiday season, and we couldn’t do it without YOU. ❤️
We also extend a special thank you to the dedicated officers who volunteered their time to make this mission possible — Technical Services Officer Tina Hutson, Corporal Juan Alvarez, and Lt. Ben Price. Their service and compassion reflect the true spirit of the season.
A huge THANK YOU to every single person who donated — your generosity and kindness continue to show what true community is all about! 🎅✨
Dothan Police Department Now Hiring: Opportunities Available Across Multiple Units
The Dothan Police Department is actively recruiting new officers and inviting motivated individuals to begin a rewarding career in public service.
Department officials say DPD offers a wide range of specialized units, competitive benefits, and multiple opportunities for officers to earn additional income. Applicants will also have access to extensive training, career advancement paths, and the chance to make a meaningful difference within the Dothan community.
