Diplomatic Security Helps Return Fugitive from Mexico to Face Passport Fraud Charges

State Department Special Agents Facilitate Return of Lonnie Michael Adams

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS) played a key role in coordinating the detention of Lonnie Michael Adams in Mexico, and his return to the United States on August 15. DS obtained a warrant against Adams on August 6, 2008 for fraudulently using his brother’s valid U.S. passport and falsifying his passport renewal application. In addition to the warrant issued by DS, Adams has warrants for his arrest issued by the Los Angeles County Sherriff’s Office on March 11, 1997 for obstruction charges, and by the Walton County Sherriff’s Office in Florida on February 25, 2002 for probation violations stemming from charges of Felony DUI and possession of a controlled substance.

DS Special Agents assigned to the Regional Security Office (RSO) at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City received information that Adams was residing in Cancun, Mexico. After extensive DS interaction and liaison with local police, and the U.S. Marshals Service, Mexican authorities detained Adams.

Gregory B. Starr, Director of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, stated, “It’s this type of close, worldwide law enforcement liaison capability that gives Diplomatic Security unparalleled ability to apprehend fugitives like Adams. His return highlights the critical role DS plays in bringing suspects and fugitives to justice, regardless of where they may hide. Adams’ apprehension was a direct result of law enforcement coordination and field efforts by Diplomatic Security, the U.S. Marshals Service, and local Mexican police and immigration officials.”

Because the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security is the most widely represented law enforcement organization in the world, DS’s capability to track and capture fugitives who have fled U.S. jurisdiction to avoid prosecution is unmatched. During 2007, DS assisted in the resolution of 113 international fugitive cases from over 30 different countries. DS has returned 82 fugitives in 2008 alone.

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security is the U.S. Department of State’s law enforcement and security arm. The special agents, engineers, and security professionals of the Bureau are responsible for the security of 285 U.S. diplomatic missions around the world. In the United States, Diplomatic Security personnel protect the U.S. Secretary of State and high-ranking foreign dignitaries and officials visiting the United States, investigate passport and visa fraud, and conduct personnel security investigations. More information about the U.S. Department of State and the Bureau of Diplomatic Security may be obtained at www.state.gov/m/ds.

 Contact:
Darby G. Holladay
571-345-2507
Holladaydg@state.gov