GEORGIA — A three-week fugitive operation across metro Atlanta has resulted in 78 arrests, according to the U.S. Marshals Service.
The operation, conducted from March 16 through April 3, involved the U.S. Marshals Service and multiple local law enforcement agencies, including those in Clayton County. Officials said the effort targeted individuals wanted for serious crimes such as murder, aggravated assault, rape and child molestation.
Authorities reported that 46 illegal firearms, 57 pounds of narcotics and approximately $18,000 in cash were recovered during the operation.
Before the initiative officially began, the U.S. Marshals Service Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force carried out investigations that led to 16 arrests. An additional 28 arrests were made during the operation itself.
“This operation shows what is possible when law enforcement works together,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Gadyaces S. Serralta. “Our federal, state, and local partners delivered. They removed violent offenders and made Clayton County and Atlanta safer.”
Officials said the task force and Clayton County police will spend the next 90 days analyzing the operation’s impact on violent crime. Information gathered will also be used to support future narcotics and gang investigations.
Several other agencies participated in the operation, including sheriff’s offices in DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett and Henry counties, as well as police departments in Atlanta, South Fulton and Henry County, the Fulton County Marshals Department and the Georgia Department of Corrections.
The investigation remains ongoing.
