FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: April 27, 2007 U.S. Marshals Service, Office of Public Affairs (202) 307-9065   Day Two of Indianapolis’ “Fugitive Safe Surrender” Earns Heartfelt Support   Thursday’s heavy rains in Indianapolis didn’t slow the growing number of men and women participating in the second day of the U.S. Marshals “Fugitive Safe Surrender.” Despite bad weather, 176 fugitives have surrendered to authorities over the past two days. One of many stories coming from those surrendering at the Messiah Missionary Baptist Church, included a mother who turned over her son. “She appeared relieved after the court hearing held at the church,” said a Deputy Marshal observing the event. “As she was leaving she asked a volunteer how the agency was funding the program. The mother reached in her purse and pulled out a $10.00 bill, saying that was all she had, but wanted to give it back to the U.S. Marshals so they could continue the program.” Fugitive Safe Surrender is scheduled to run through Saturday, April 28. The agency’s Indianapolis office is the third in the nation to host these innovative programs. The Marshals initiative encourages persons wanted for non-violent misdemeanor and/or felony offenses to surrender at church venues. Often, when people sought on such warrants surrender, they must spend time in jail cells while their cases are processed. With Fugitive Safe Surrender, unless the warrants are for violent crimes, most cases can be resolved at the church, or arrangements made for formal hearings. The Marshals goal is to reduce the risk to law enforcement officers who must pursue fugitives, and to avoid problems in neighborhoods where fugitives may be hiding. The program also can be much less risky for the fugitives themselves. United States Marshal Peter M. Swaim stated, “This type of initiative is important for the city of Indianapolis in showing a sincere collaboration between the criminal justice system and the community. Those who have accepted responsibility for their actions benefit by taking the initiative to have their cases adjudicated in a safe, relaxed environment.” Fifty four of the 176 fugitives who have surrendered were sought on felony charges, ranging from narcotics dealing to attempted murder. Those wanted for violent crimes are arrested.