Police to Replace Unit that Raided Midtown Bar

The Red Dog Unit of the Atlanta Police Department will be disbanded and replaced with a new "tactical crime-fighting unit," according to a press release.

During a raid in September 2009, dozens of officers with the Red Dog Unit unlawfully searched, detained and/or arrested patrons at the bar on Ponce de Leon Avenue, a hotspot for the gay community. 

Police Chief George Turner today announced his plans to form a new unit to replace the controversial Red Dog unit, which was formed in 1987.

“This new unit will be a highly-trained, competent force,” Chief Turner said.  “They will be second only to SWAT in training and tactical efficiency. The members of this unit will be carefully screened and selected.”

Red Dog will continue to operate while the new unit is created, according to the release. The department will interview candidates over the next 60 days.

In 2010, Red Dog made 2,374 criminal arrests, recovered 76 firearms, issued 625 traffic citations, seized more than $2 million in drugs and apprehended more than 300 wanted persons, according to a press release. The unit currently has 29 officers.