National Law Enforcement Collaboration Takes Place in Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. – During the month of June, the U.S. Marshals Service’s Superior and District Courts, and the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force, partnered with several agencies to lead Operation North Star D.C., a national initiative focused on the investigation and arrest of violent fugitives operating within the Washington D.C. area. Operation North Star was deployed as an immediate impact operation intended to support partner agencies and community members with relief from violent crime. The operation, which was conducted during the entire month of June, led to over 170 arrests, including 15 wanted on homicide related charges, and the seizure of 4 firearms.

“The U.S Marshals Service for the District of Columbia is proud to work with our federal, state, and local partners in a coordinated effort to apprehend these dangerous fugitives. Operation North Star is a perfect example of law enforcement working together to combat violent crime and holding those responsible accountable,” said Lamont J. Ruffin, U.S. Marshal (Acting) District of Columbia – District Court. “We are committed to continue our joint efforts to ensure the apprehension of the drivers of violence in our community.”

“The Metropolitan Police Department is appreciative of the continued support of our local and Federal partners to help ensure individuals who perpetrate violence in the District are apprehended and held accountable for their actions. The Metropolitan Police Department specifically values the relationship with the United States Marshal Service and the contributions they make to target the most violent offenders in the District. This operation is yet another example of the continued partnership between law enforcement agencies to benefit the Washington D.C. community,” said Robert J. Contee, III, Chief, Metropolitan Police Department.

In addition to fugitive investigations, Operation North Star also focused on community outreach. During the month of June, USMS personnel participated various outreach events throughout the NCR.

“Addressing challenges confronting law enforcement and the community is like turning a ship without an engine. It's hard, but not impossible, and made more possible when everyone helps. The USMS for the Superior Court of DC appreciates and values the support provided by its law enforcement and community partners during the success of Operation North Star. We will continue to work with them in apprehending suspect individuals and striving to reduce the violent crime that threatens Washington, DC, and the surrounding area,” said Robert A. Dixon, U.S. Marshal, District of Columbia - Superior Court.

“Public safety is our top priority and the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with the U.S. Marshals Service and all of our law enforcement partners to reduce violence in our neighborhoods.

Through national initiatives such as Operation North Star, we will bring dangerous fugitives to justice.” Matthew M. Graves, U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.

Agencies participating in Operation North Star included (22): U.S. Marshals Service; D.C. Metropolitan Police Department; U.S. Attorney’s Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Department of State – Diplomatic Security Service; Homeland Security Investigations; Immigrations Customs Enforcement; United States Postal Inspection Service; D.C. Department of Corrections; Metro Transit Police Department; Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency; Prince George’s County Sheriff’s Office; Prince George’s County Police Department; Charles County Sheriff’s Office; Bowie City Police Department; Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office; Montgomery County Police Department; Maryland State Police; Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services; Forrest Heights Police Department; Charles County Sheriff’s Office; Howard County Police Department.

The Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force is a congressionally supported multi-agency task force whose mission is to focus resources and efforts on the reduction of violence within the National Capital Region through the identification, investigation, and apprehension of fugitives wanted for egregious crimes against the community, while ensuring the application of equal Justice, Integrity, and Service for all.