Previously deported felon arrested by U.S. Marshals in Ohio

OHIO — The U.S. Marshals-led Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) arrested 46-year-old Hector Linares late this afternoon.

Linares was wanted for multiple offenses, including violating his federal supervised release, which stemmed from a 2009 drug charge.

A warrant for his arrest was issued on January 30.

He was also wanted by the Cleveland Division of Police for aggravated assault, with a warrant issued in May 2024, and by the University Heights Police Department for felonious assault, with a warrant issued on January 21 of this year.

Authorities identified Linares as a suspected gang member and a previously deported felon, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Task force officers located Linares driving in the 24000 block of Lakeland Boulevard in Euclid.

They conducted a traffic stop, and Linares complied, allowing officers to take him into custody without incident.

During the arrest, officers found a loaded handgun and suspected methamphetamine in his possession. Linares was transported to the U.S. Courthouse.

“We will continue to work with our partners to focus on violent criminals who are also in this country illegally,” said U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott. “Today, a violent fugitive in possession of a handgun was put in jail, and our community is safer.”

Anyone with information about wanted fugitives can contact the NOVFTF at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833) or submit a web tip. Tips can remain anonymous, and reward money is available.

The NOVFTF – Cleveland Division includes the U.S. Marshals Service and multiple federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Cleveland Police Department, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Highway Patrol, and several local police departments.