WEST VIRGINIA — A nearly month-long law enforcement operation targeting violent fugitives and noncompliant sex offenders resulted in dozens of arrests across southern West Virginia, federal officials announced Tuesday.
U.S. Attorney Moore Capito joined the U.S. Marshals Service and other law enforcement partners to announce the results of “Operation Spring Sweep,” which led to 72 felony arrests.
The operation, conducted by the U.S. Marshals Southern District of West Virginia CUFFED Task Force in partnership with the West Virginia State Police, began March 9 and officially concluded April 4. Authorities said efforts continued beyond that date, with an additional fugitive captured in Ohio on April 14.
As part of the operation, the West Virginia State Police conducted 222 sex offender compliance checks. Officials said 19 of the arrests were for alleged violations of sex offender registration and notification requirements.
Among those charged is 30-year-old Johnathan Matthew Taylor, who was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 17 for allegedly violating the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Officials noted that an indictment is an allegation and that all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Federal officials said the operation focused on locating individuals wanted for sex crimes, as well as violent offenders who failed to comply with registration requirements.
Authorities said the investigation reflects ongoing efforts to target offenders considered a threat to public safety.
