Abilene police undercover unit honored by FBI for brave acts

ABILENE, Texas ( KTAB/KRBC ) — Because of their anonymity, unrecognized heroism is a common factor for those in an undercover unit. However, the extraordinary actions of a select few within the Abilene Police Department special unit received praise from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which honored them for apprehending a suspect and saving a young child.

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That suspect is 26-year-old Alek Collins. Collins is accused of shooting three individuals in a park near Clovis, New Mexico. Two of those individuals died due to their injuries, and one, a 5-year-old child, survived. After the shooting, Collins allegedly kidnapped the child of one of the victims, a 10-month-old baby, and then fled to Texas.

Abilene police found Collins at a home in north Abilene where he was reportedly staying. Narcotic agents set up surveillance and later arrested Collins in May 2024. The baby was taken into protective custody and received a medical evaluation.

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Six undercover officers were recognized for their actions. FBI Assistant Special Agent Geoff McGuire praised the officers and spoke to their dedication.

"I do think it is critically important for us to make sure that the public knows that even behind the scenes, they have men and women who are doing incredible work. Incredible work that does not go publicized. Having this ceremony ensures that the citizens of Abilene understand the amazing work that is being done. This is just one example of the incredible work that they are doing," McGuire shared.

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Abilene Police Chief Rondell Serate was also present at the ceremony and spoke about the importance of the FBI's recognition.

"The recognition speaks a lot to our officer's ability to work with other agencies, first off, in a good relationship and their dedication to their profession, especially since they're undercover. They rarely get recognized like this, which is a great thing," Serate said.

It is not only the brave men and women in uniform who face unknown challenges while choosing to protect the public they serve. Their families and loved ones also share these burdens, as McGuire illustrated from the podium while addressing the loved ones of these officers.

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"I want to thank and praise the families who've sacrificed daily so that these gentlemen can do their job, but not just these gentlemen, but this entire police department. So, thank you to the families," McGuire expressed.

The suspect who was apprehended by the Abilene Police Undercover Unit, Alek Collins, has now been indicted on charges of double homicide and kidnapping of a minor, as well as aggravated robbery and one count of assault against a public servant.