Memphis Safe Task Force Thursday Significant Arrests: 50 Arrests, 1 Juvenile, 3 Illegal Guns Recovered

Memphis, TN – The Memphis Safe Task Force on Thursday executed 50 criminal arrests, including one juvenile, and recovered three illegal firearms.

Of note:

Katruan Phillips, 21, was arrested in the 2600 block of Durby Circle on a warrant for criminal attempted first-degree murder, reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon, possession with intent to distribute, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a firearm during the commission of felony, and employment firearm with intent to commit a felony. Officers recovered a firearm. Phillips is a suspected gang member.

Nelson Sanford, 21, was arrested in the 5300 block of Scottsdale Avenue on a warrant that was issued for first-degree murder. MSTF developed information on where Sanford was residing and MSTF members performed a call out and Sanford surrendered without incident. Officers recovered a handgun with a switch, .40-caliber ammunition, and marijuana.

Ongoing manhunt: The MSTF is asking the public’s help and, along with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, offering a combined reward of up to $32,500 for information leading to the capture of a man suspected of shooting a Memphis Police Department officer Feb. 27 during a traffic stop.

Danell Maxwell, 40, of Memphis, is wanted for attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault, and employment of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, per an arrest warrant issued Feb. 28. He was added to the Tennessee Most Wanted list the same day.

Maxwell is Black, stands 5 feet 10 inches and weighs approximately 180 pounds. He has brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing dark clothing and an orange and green reflective vest. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

Since the launch of the Memphis Safe Task Force initiative, officers have made 7,574 arrests, including 45 for homicide, 833 for controlled substances, 664 for firearms violations, and 98 for sex offenses. Of those arrested, 214 were juveniles and 789 were known gang members. The task force has seized 1,237 illegal firearms. These enforcement actions reflect a sustained commitment to reducing violent crime and removing dangerous weapons from Memphis neighborhoods.

Begun in September 2025, the MSTF is a multi-agency initiative to combat violent crime in Memphis. Composed of federal, state, and local law enforcement, as well as the Tennessee National Guard, the task force is focused on arresting violent criminals, clearing warrants, seizing firearms, and locating missing children. Since the operation began, the MSTF has located 150 missing children.

This operation reflects the MSTF’s commitment to coordinated enforcement efforts and its mission to identify, apprehend, and hold accountable those who pose a threat to public safety.

Anyone with information about wanted fugitives is encouraged to submit it via the USMS Tips app.