Share This Article
A multi-agency violent crime reduction operation in Cincinnati on January 12, 2026, led by Cincinnati Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of stolen vehicles and illegally possessed firearms.
The operation, part of Governor DeWine’s initiative targeting repeat violent offenders, included high-speed pursuits where suspects crashed vehicles. Four suspects—Mykez Smith, Madison Stallworth, Derrick Latham, and Demarzah Brown—were arrested and face multiple charges, including weapons violations, receiving stolen property, and reckless driving.
Authorities say the effort aimed to disrupt criminal activity before it escalates into shootings or violent encounters.
Officers concentrated patrols in high-crime areas identified through data analysis, according to a press release.
The operation unfolded over several hours and involved traffic enforcement, surveillance, and coordinated stops. No officers were seriously injured during the operation. Officials emphasized that the initiative remains ongoing.
The violent crime reduction operation brought together the Cincinnati Police Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the collaboration reflects a statewide strategy to address violent crime trends. Agencies shared intelligence and resources to improve response times.
Law enforcement leaders say joint operations increase visibility and deterrence. The initiative aligns with Governor Mike DeWine’s broader public safety agenda. Officials stressed that cooperation across jurisdictions is essential.
Violent crime reduction operation targets stolen vehicles and guns
The most serious incidents during the violent crime reduction operation involved stolen vehicles and illegal firearms. According to Spectrum News 1, officers attempted a traffic stop late Monday night after identifying a stolen SUV in downtown Cincinnati.
The driver fled, triggering a brief pursuit monitored by an Ohio State Highway Patrol aviation unit. The vehicle eventually crashed. Officers detained two suspects at the scene.
Authorities recovered a stolen handgun from the vehicle, according to law enforcement statements. One suspect faced charges including receiving stolen property and improper handling of a firearm.
Police also cited reckless operation and driving without a valid license. Investigators confirmed the firearm had been reported stolen earlier this year. Officials say removing illegal guns remains a top priority.
In a separate encounter later that evening, officers located another stolen vehicle connected to suspected criminal activity. According to WLWT, multiple occupants fled on foot after the vehicle stopped.
Officers apprehended two additional suspects after a short chase. Police recovered two firearms during the arrests. Authorities believe the weapons were unlawfully possessed.
Additional arrests underscore violent crime reduction focus
The violent crime reduction operation resulted in at least four arrests across multiple incidents, according to Local 12 News. Charges vary by suspect and remain subject to court review. Officials say several of the individuals arrested have prior criminal histories. Prosecutors will review the cases for potential felony charges.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that targeted enforcement aims to prevent future violence. Officers focused on individuals suspected of carrying illegal weapons or driving stolen vehicles. Police say these offenses often connect to broader violent crime patterns.
Officials stressed that proactive stops help reduce shootings. The operation followed weeks of planning and data review.
Authorities also highlighted the role of technology during the violent crime reduction operation. Aerial surveillance assisted officers during pursuits. Real-time communication allowed units to coordinate safely. Police say technology improves situational awareness and reduces risk to bystanders. Officials declined to release further tactical details.
Violent crime reduction operations expand statewide
State officials say the Cincinnati operation reflects a growing emphasis on violent crime reduction across Ohio. Governor DeWine’s office has promoted coordinated enforcement initiatives since 2021.
According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, similar operations have occurred in Columbus, Cleveland, and Dayton. Officials report hundreds of arrests statewide through these efforts.
Law enforcement leaders argue that violent crime reduction strategies must balance enforcement with prevention. While operations focus on arrests, officials also stress community engagement.
Police departments continue to partner with neighborhood groups and social service agencies. Authorities say long-term reductions require addressing root causes. Enforcement remains one part of a broader approach.
Cincinnati officials point to recent crime data showing mixed trends. Violent crime has fluctuated across neighborhoods, according to city statistics. Police say targeted operations allow departments to deploy resources efficiently.
Officials declined to speculate on long-term outcomes. Data from ongoing operations will guide future deployments.
Community reaction and public safety concerns
Community response to the violent crime reduction operation has been mixed. Some residents welcomed the increased police presence. Others expressed concerns about enforcement tactics. City leaders emphasized transparency and accountability. Officials say operations follow constitutional policing standards.
According to statements from the Cincinnati Police Department, officers receive training on de-escalation and lawful searches. Leaders stressed that operations focus on criminal behavior, not neighborhoods.
Officials encouraged residents to report suspicious activity. Community tips often help guide enforcement priorities.
Local officials say public safety remains a top concern entering 2026. City Council members have discussed additional funding for policing and violence prevention.
What comes next for violent crime reduction efforts
Law enforcement agencies confirmed that additional violent crime reduction operations are planned. Officials say timing and locations will remain flexible. The goal is to disrupt criminal networks and reduce gun violence. Authorities emphasized that arrests represent only one measure of success.
Police urge residents to stay informed and engaged. Officials recommend attending community meetings and reviewing public safety updates. According to state officials, ongoing evaluation will shape future operations. Data collected during the Cincinnati effort will inform statewide planning. Leaders say sustained collaboration remains critical.
Summary
A multi-agency violent crime reduction operation in Cincinnati led to at least four arrests, the seizure of multiple illegal firearms, and the recovery of stolen vehicles, according to law enforcement. The coordinated effort involved Cincinnati police, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, focusing patrols in high-crime areas identified through data analysis.
Authorities say incidents during the operation included pursuits involving stolen vehicles and the arrest of suspects unlawfully possessing firearms. Officials emphasized that the operation is part of a broader statewide strategy backed by Governor Mike DeWine to deter gun violence through targeted enforcement, technology, and interagency cooperation. While community reactions were mixed, police stressed constitutional policing, transparency, and ongoing collaboration, noting that similar operations will continue across Ohio.
Also read:
Interim chief outlines stronger police presence in OTR after recent violence
