A native of Birmingham, Sgt. Rishea Murry of the Bessemer Police Department Crime Prevention Unit has been with the department for nearly 11 years. She started as a patrol officer working on a beat. A 2016 graduate of the Northeast Law Enforcement Academy in Anniston, Sgt. Murry was recently promoted to the rank of sergeant.
An outgoing, energetic personality, she never meets a stranger. Sgt. Murry is respected in uniform and out of uniform. She is a 2010 graduate of Alabama State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education.
Sgt. Murry and her family are members of Victory Tabernacle Church of God in Christ in Birmingham. She is passionate about today’s youth and making sure they make the right choices. An asset to the department, Sgt. Murry is committed to working closely with neighborhoods, businesses, and community organizations for a safer city.
What is the mission of the Crime Prevention Unit?
Sgt. Murry: “Our mission is to provide first-time juvenile offenders with a structured, community-based alternative to formal prosecution. Through mentorship, hands-on community work, and restorative practices, we aim to guide young individuals toward accountability, personal growth, and a future free from crime.”
Speak to crime prevention?
Sgt. Murry: “Crime prevention is being proactive instead of reactive. Our training includes active shooter drills and threat awareness.”
What are some of your duties as sergeant of the Unit?
Sgt. Murry: “I am responsible for all the school resource officers (SRO). We work together to develop more effective ideas to better serve the community.”
What is your goal for the Crime Prevention Unit?
Sgt. Murry: “I want to start a program named R.E.S.E.T., Redirecting Every Student Early Trouble. This program will allow us to connect more with the youth and get a better understanding of what they are dealing with today.”
What gives you joy?
Sgt. Murry: “Seeing the positive effect that my work has had on the students.”
Tell me about your family?
Sgt. Murry: “I was born in 1987. I have been happily married for 14 years to Lonnie Murry, and we have three children. We are members of Victory Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, and Supt. Gregory Stanley is pastor of the church.”
What is your favorite meal?
Sgt. Murry: “I love a seafood boil, extra spicy with no sausage.”
