Memphis, Tennessee, January 8, 2026
The Memphis Safe Task Force executed a significant operation resulting in the arrest of 67 individuals and the seizure of 10 illegal firearms. This effort highlights the task force’s dedication to reducing violent crime and improving public safety in Memphis. Notable arrests include documented gang members and individuals facing serious charges. The operation underscores ongoing initiatives aimed at restoring law and order, reflected in substantial crime rate reductions since the task force’s establishment.
Memphis Safe Task Force Arrests 67, Seizes 10 Firearms in Major Operation
Memphis, Tennessee – On January 6, 2026, the Memphis Safe Task Force (MSTF) conducted a significant operation resulting in 67 criminal arrests and the seizure of 10 illegal firearms. This initiative underscores the task force’s ongoing commitment to enhancing public safety and reducing violent crime in Memphis.
Details of the Operation
The operation led to the apprehension of several individuals on serious charges:
- Montavius Wells, 28: A documented Vice Lords gang member, arrested on a first-degree murder warrant for the December 25, 2025, shooting death of Cadarious Williams at an apartment complex in the 3400 block of Blueberry Hill.
- Tommy McShane, 60: Arrested on a second-degree murder warrant for the September 4, 2025, shooting death of Sean Lambert Sr. in the 2300 block of Eldridge Avenue.
- Juvenile Arrest: A juvenile was apprehended on a second-degree murder warrant for the December 19, 2025, shooting death of Sherman Berry at 850 West Raines Road.
Background on the Memphis Safe Task Force
The Memphis Safe Task Force is an interagency coalition comprising federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Established to combat violent crime and enhance public safety, the task force has achieved notable successes since its inception:
- Over 4,100 Arrests: As of December 2025, the task force has made more than 4,100 arrests, including 15 homicide suspects and over 400 known gang members.
- Firearm Seizures: More than 650 illegal firearms have been seized, contributing to a significant reduction in gun violence.
- Missing Children: The task force has located and recovered 123 missing children, ensuring their safety and reunification with families.
These efforts align with the task force’s mission to restore law and order in Memphis, as outlined in a presidential memorandum issued in September 2025. The memorandum emphasizes the need for coordinated action to address the city’s high rates of violent crime and to ensure the safety of its residents.
Impact on Crime Rates
Since the launch of the Memphis Safe Task Force, there has been a noticeable decline in various crime categories:
- Murders: Decreased by 39.47%.
- Sexual Assaults: Reduced by 43.13%.
- Robberies: Dropped by 59.58%.
- Vehicle Thefts: Declined by 69.63%.
These statistics highlight the task force’s effectiveness in enhancing public safety and restoring order to Memphis communities.
Ongoing Commitment
The Memphis Safe Task Force remains dedicated to its mission of reducing violent crime and improving public safety. Through continued collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies, the task force aims to build a safer Memphis for all residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Memphis Safe Task Force?
The Memphis Safe Task Force is an interagency coalition comprising federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, established to combat violent crime and enhance public safety in Memphis.
What were the outcomes of the January 6, 2026, operation?
The operation resulted in 67 criminal arrests and the seizure of 10 illegal firearms, including the apprehension of Montavius Wells, Tommy McShane, and a juvenile on serious charges.
How many arrests has the task force made since its inception?
As of December 2025, the task force has made more than 4,100 arrests, including 15 homicide suspects and over 400 known gang members.
What impact has the task force had on crime rates in Memphis?
Since its launch, the task force has contributed to a significant decline in various crime categories, including a 39.47% decrease in murders and a 69.63% reduction in vehicle thefts.
How many illegal firearms have been seized by the task force?
The task force has seized more than 650 illegal firearms, contributing to a significant reduction in gun violence in Memphis.
Key Features of the Memphis Safe Task Force’s Recent Operation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operation Date | January 6, 2026 |
| Number of Arrests | 67 |
| Firearms Seized | 10 illegal firearms |
| Notable Arrests | Montavius Wells (28), Tommy McShane (60), Juvenile (name withheld) |
| Charges | First-degree murder, second-degree murder, second-degree murder (juvenile) |
| Task Force Composition | Federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies |
| Established | September 2025 |
| Arrests Since Inception | Over 4,100 |
| Firearms Seized Since Inception | Over 650 |
| Missing Children Located | 123 |
| Crime Rate Reduction | Murders down 39.47%, sexual assaults down 43.13%, robberies down 59.58%, vehicle thefts down 69.63% |
Now Happening on X
- @TnCoNews1 (January 7, 2026, 5:30 PM) Members of the Memphis Safe Task Force executed 50 criminal arrests, seized eight illicit firearms, and recovered an endangered missing child on Monday. View on X
- @JFK19thPres (January 8, 2026, 3:12 AM) The Memphis Safe Task Force carried out 50 criminal arrests, seized eight illicit firearms, and recovered an endangered missing child on Monday. View on X
- @3onyourside (January 1, 2026, 10:00 AM) A child was grazed by a bullet and one person was killed following two separate New Year’s Eve shootings in Memphis, with police investigating the incidents. View on X
- @WMCActionNews5 (January 4, 2026, 5:04 PM) Memphis Police Department is investigating a shooting that left one man in critical condition. View on X
- @ABC24Memphis (January 5, 2026, 9:34 AM) One person is dead and two others injured following a shooting that broke out Saturday evening in Memphis. View on X
- @therealdougbell (January 5, 2026, 10:14 AM) The Memphis Safe Task Force announced the New Year’s Eve arrest of an alleged kidnapper, rapist, and drug dealer. View on X
- @TWTN1015 (January 5, 2026, 12:51 PM) The Memphis Safe Task Force has issued a list of names and crimes committed by individuals arrested since the National Guard arrived in the city. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charges Filed Against Man for Attempting to Run Over Officer
Double Shooting in South Memphis Sparks Law Enforcement Response
Legal Controversy Surrounds National Guard Deployment in Memphis
Memphis Sees Historic Drop in Traffic Fatalities
Suspect Points Gun at Church’s Chicken Employee in Memphis
Concerns Rise Over Mistaken Release of Rapist in Memphis
Memphis Homeowner Fires Shots During Break-In Attempt
Tragic Car Crash Claims Life in Hyde Park, Memphis
Traffic Stop Incident in Memphis Raises Community Concerns
Oakhaven Shooting Incident Raises Community Concerns
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
