Moore Joins Push to Reclaim Macon Streets

MACON, GA – While the feds rarely get their hands dirty on the street level, U.S. Attorney Michael J. Moore will be making a very public appearance Tuesday, joining local law enforcement and community leaders at Macon City Hall. The event? The 30th Annual National Night Out – a desperate attempt to project strength in a city struggling with the usual urban rot.

The official line, spewed by the Department of Justice, is that National Night Out aims to “heighten crime and drug prevention awareness,” and “strengthen neighborhood spirit.” Translation: scare the criminals and hope the good citizens actually *notice* a cop for once. Moore will be on scene at 11:00 a.m., lending his name – and federal resources – to the local pushback against a tide of illicit activity. Expect plenty of photo ops.

Moore, in a prepared statement, predictably touted the event as a “perfect opportunity” for neighbors to “join with their law enforcement and community partners” to send a message to criminals. “Crime does not rule the night and that criminals have no safe haven when the sun goes down,” he declared. It’s a nice sentiment, but it won’t stop the dealing, the violence, or the desperation that fuels it. Still, optics matter, and the feds want to be seen as *involved*.

Organizers are predicting a nationwide turnout of over 16,000 communities and a staggering 38 million people. Whether that translates to actual, lasting impact on crime rates is another matter entirely. It’s a feel-good exercise, a symbolic gesture, but in a city like Macon, every little bit of perceived security helps. The streets don’t care about slogans, but the people who live on them might.

While Moore won’t be busting anyone himself, his presence signals a commitment – at least on the surface – to tackling the problems plaguing Macon. Whether that commitment extends beyond a single photo opportunity remains to be seen. Grimy Times will be watching to see if this show of force translates into actual arrests and convictions, or if it’s just another empty promise in a city full of them.

The event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 6, 2013, at Macon City Hall. Residents are encouraged to attend, wave a flag, and pretend everything is okay. The Grimy Times will be there, documenting the reality.