Trenton, NJ – Following a four-year tradition of success in its national efforts, the U.S. Marshals Service locally conducted another successful Operation FALCON (Federal and Local Cops Organized Nationally) from June 9-June 13. Led by the U.S. Marshal Service, Operation FALCON is a nationwide law enforcement effort.

Operation FALCON 2008–New Jersey combined the collective efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies in one of the state’s largest-ever fugitive initiatives, focusing on capturing individuals wanted on felony charges including gang members, sex offenders and fugitives wanted for crimes of violence. Over the course of the five-day operation, Deputy U.S. Marshals, teamed with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, arrested 582 fugitives – including 81 gang members - and cleared 648 warrants. Six firearms were also recovered. One such arrest highlights the goal of this operation.

On June 10, Keith Herd, a documented member of the Bloods street gang, was arrested in Newark by one of the FALCON teams. The Newark Police Department wanted Herd, one of that agency’s 12 Most Wanted, for a series of crimes that occurred in March. He allegedly robbed a victim and shot and wounded another person. FALCON team members developed information on Herd’s location, responded and took him safely into custody. Coincidently, team members also simultaneously located and arrested Jaquin Marlin, another alleged Bloods gang member, who authorities sought for robbery in connection with Herd’s crimes!

“This operation, along with our past FALCON efforts, provides a clear indication of what law enforcement agencies can accomplish when there is cooperation on all levels – federal, state and local,” said James T. Plousis, U.S. Marshal for the District of New Jersey. “When we share information and pool our resources toward a common goal, the results are safer communities for our children and a more secure homeland.”

Operation FALCON – New Jersey consisted of officers from 47 federal, state, and local law enforcement, working throughout the five-day period. Each participating local officer was sworn in as a Special Deputy U.S. Marshal immediately prior to the start of this operation. This special authority empowered them to cross traditional lines of jurisdiction to track down and arrest targeted fugitives throughout the week.

Since its inception in 2005, Operation FALCON has made over 36,500 arrests and cleared over 45,300 warrants. It continues to be the largest and most successful fugitive apprehension effort in U.S. Marshals history.

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