Today, I start out like any other work day . . . working out
in the gym. Staying in shape is a requirement in the Marshals Service
and it is important to be both physically and mentally prepared for any
situation that may arise during the day. After lifting weights, I always
enjoy a relaxing run . . . and today is no different from any
other day.
I am in the office by 0800 (8:00 am - this is military
time which
identifies each hour of the 24 hours in the day) and going through my emails. I see
that I received information back on a collateral lead that I had sent
out to Ohio. A collateral lead is investigative information gathered on a fugitive that may be located in another
district or jurisdiction. I had collected information on a probation
violator (a person who fails to follow the orders of a federal court) wanted in Eastern Washington, but I believe was hiding
in Ohio. This information included electronic communication between
family members and the fugitive. Deputies from the Cincinnati Marshals Office
have gone to the address
I gave them and arrested the subject. In addition to the
arrest, they seized (take possession) approximately $3,000.00 in U.S. Currency and
some illegal drugs. The Marshals in Cincinnati will work with the Drug
Enforcement Administration Agents (DEA) to
prosecute the subject.
By 1000 (10:00 am), I am working with 3 deputies from the Spokane County Sheriffs
Office Career Criminal Unit. We work together in a group called a
task force. The purpose of this task force is to work together to catch both
Federal and local fugitives.
We set up surveillance (closely watch or observe) on a last known
address of a fugitive who is wanted by the DEA. The DEA usually
transfers apprehension (arrest) authority to the Marshals Service so that they
may focus their attention on more drug investigations. Before long, I
observe a vehicle pull into the driveway that matches the description of
a vehicle that had been driven by the fugitive's girlfriend. The vehicle
stops near the house and the driver gets out. Sure enough, it is him. I
radio to the other units and we all move in with our vehicles. I pull my
vehicle in behind the fugitive's vehicle so that he can't escape. As soon as I yell
"POLICE" the fugitive takes
off running toward the back yard . . . the chase is on.
After running through the yards of three houses, Deputy Smith tackles the subject.
It takes three law enforcement officers to restrain (hold) the fugitive. Since it
is still
early in the day we take the former fugitive to the Marshals Office to
prepare him for an initial appearance with the Magistrate Judge.
Before the day is over, we arrest 2 more fugitives on local charges, but
none as exciting as our first arrest of the day. I am home by 1700 (5:00 pm) today,
which is rare but enjoyable to be home at a decent time.
