FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
CONTACT: |
April 27, 2007 |
U.S. Marshals Service, Office of
Public Affairs
(202) 307-9065 |
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Day Two of Indianapolis’ “Fugitive
Safe Surrender” Earns Heartfelt Support |
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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. |
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