Upon the retirement of United States Marshal (USM) Kerry Pettingill on December 31, 2024, pursuant to the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, Chief Deputy United States Marshal (CDUSM) Russell “Russ” Jacobs assumed the role of Acting USM for the Eastern District of Oklahoma (E/OK). Acting USM Jacobs is the primary liaison to federal judges, U.S. Attorneys, law enforcement agencies, tribal governments, and political leaders. His leadership extends across all operational domains—fugitive investigations, criminal intelligence, judicial threat management, international operations, and prisoner services—while also managing a multimillion-dollar budget.

Acting USM Jacobs is a distinguished law enforcement leader with over 22 years of service in the United States Marshals Service (USMS). His earlier leadership roles included serving as Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal and Judicial Security Inspector in the District of Hawaii, where he was recognized with the prestigious Director’s Award for Meritorious Service for leading a multimillion-dollar federal courthouse renovation and developed critical active shooter response protocols. He also played a key role in threat investigations, high-risk fugitive apprehensions, and judicial security planning across multiple federal districts in Texas. His tenure was marked by operational excellence, strong audit results, and initiatives that prioritized officer safety, interagency collaboration, and the professional development of his teams. Under his guidance, over 75 personnel, including Deputy U.S. Marshals, Task Force Officers, and Court Security Officers, executed high-stakes missions with precision and accountability. The E/OK was recognized as the Medium District of the Year for Fiscal Year 2024.

Acting USM Jacobs is a graduate of the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and has completed a broad array of advanced training in areas such as high-risk fugitive apprehension, SWAT tactics, executive protection, and crisis response. His technical acumen spans criminal investigations, threat analysis, and the use of intelligence platforms including NCIC, NLETS, and Lexis Nexis. Acting USM Jacobs also serves on the USMS Hardship Review Board.

Respected by peers and superiors alike, Acting USM Jacobs exemplifies integrity, service, and leadership. Whether developing national strategies or conducting field-level operations, his career reflects an enduring commitment to justice, public safety, and the mission of the USMS.