Operation Viper Expanded: New Crime-Fighting Mission in Memphis Announced

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee on Friday announced the next phase of a comprehensive mission to address crime in Memphis, calling it a joint effort that will deploy federal, state, and local resources in an unprecedented way.

“For months, I have been in constant communication with the Trump Administration to develop a multi-phased, strategic plan to combat crime in Memphis, leveraging the full extent of both federal and state resources,” Lee said in a statement.

The operation will bring together the Tennessee National Guard, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Memphis Police Department, and other law enforcement agencies. The Governor noted that details are still being finalized in coordination with President Trump and federal officials to ensure each agency is deployed effectively.

Lee said the mission builds upon Operation Viper — an ongoing FBI-led task force that has already arrested hundreds of violent offenders in Memphis. To support those efforts, Lee authorized an additional surge of Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers in Shelby County, reinforcing the Bluff City Task Force partnership with MPD.

“I’ve been in close contact with the Administration throughout the week, and will be speaking with President Trump this afternoon to work out details of the mission. I’m grateful for the President’s unwavering support and commitment to providing every resource necessary to serve Memphians,” Lee added.

The Governor emphasized that despite recent challenges, Memphis remains “one of America’s world-class cities” and pledged to ensure crime will not hold the city back.

Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton praised the mission, highlighting both state and federal coordination.

“Thanks to @realDonaldTrump for partnering with Tennessee and Memphis to make a difference. While Memphis has seen crime drop to below 2020 levels, the root cause, 100+ gangs, needs to be met with force and removed from the streets,” Sexton said on X. “I want to thank @GovBillLee for his voice and actions like the millions in additional state funding and personnel to crack down on crime and @MarshaBlackburn, @BillHagertyTN and @DavidKustoff for their powerful partnership to bring federal resources to make Memphis safer and for @mayorpaulyoung for his strong voice in supporting law enforcement and tackling crime.”

The multi-agency approach underscores a recognition that gang activity and violent crime in Memphis demand sustained and coordinated attention. Leaders say that while crime rates have dipped below 2020 levels, long-term success depends on dismantling entrenched gang networks and maintaining collaboration between state, local, and federal partners.

With continued investment of resources and personnel, both Lee and Sexton expressed confidence that Memphis is on a path to greater safety and strength, signaling a united front against violent crime in Tennessee’s largest city.