The Opelika Police Department has released its arrest and incident report for the period of February 20–22, 2026, highlighting a series of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests and property crime activity in the community.
Overview of the Reporting Period
Between February 20 and 22, Opelika officers focused on roadway safety and responded to theft-related offenses within the city limits. The report underscores both late-night impaired driving enforcement and a notable property crime case under investigation.
DUI Arrests Across the Weekend
During this reporting window, officers made multiple DUI arrests involving drivers from Opelika and surrounding communities.
- A 33-year-old Opelika resident was arrested for Driving Under the Influence at 3:42 a.m. on February 21.
- Shortly afterward, at 4:01 a.m. on February 21, 33-year-old Lafayette resident was arrested for Driving Under the Influence.
- Later that evening, an Opelika resident was arrested for Driving Under the Influence at 10:25 p.m. on February 21.
- At 11:04 p.m. on February 21, a 26-year-old Opelika resident was also arrested for Driving Under the Influence.
- The enforcement carried into the next day, with a 23-year-old Auburn resident arrested for Driving Under the Influence at 6:39 p.m. on February 22.
These arrests reflect continued attention by Opelika Police to late-night and weekend impaired driving, particularly in the early morning and evening hours.
Theft and Property Crime Reports
In addition to DUI enforcement, officers responded to theft incidents during the same period.
- On February 21, Eric Stafford, 45, of West Point, Georgia, was arrested for Theft of Property, Third Degree, in connection with an incident at Walmart located at 2900 Pepperell Parkway.
- On February 22, a Theft of Property, Second Degree, was reported in the 1600 block of 4th Avenue, and that case remains documented as an occurrence during the period.
These incidents demonstrate the department’s parallel focus on retail theft and neighborhood property crimes.
Community Resources and Contacts
The Opelika Police Department encourages residents to stay informed and to report suspicious activity through official channels. Community members can contact Community Relations Administrator Allison Duke for media inquiries, download the department’s mobile app, or submit anonymous tips through Central Alabama CrimeStoppers at 215-STOP (334.215.7867) or toll-free at 1.833.AL1.STOP and online at 215STOP.com.
By sharing these updates, the department aims to promote transparency, support public safety awareness, and encourage continued community partnership in crime prevention.
