CLEVELAND (Toledo News Now) - The U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is celebrating its 10th anniversary of hunting down the toughest criminals wanted in northern Ohio.
The NOVFTF was first established in June 2003 by U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott, as he teamed up with various federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in northern Ohio's major cities, to bring resources together to track down the area's most violent offenders. The task force first began operations in Cleveland, Akron, Youngstown and Toledo. It consists of more than 110 federal, state and local law enforcement agencies with more than 300 law enforcement officers assigned.
Over the last 10 years, the NOVFTF has expanded with teams now also established in Elyria, Mansfield, Painesville and the latest forming in Canton.
Since its inception in June 2003, the NOVFTF has been responsible for the arrests of nearly 32,000 fugitives and has cleared more than 45,000 warrants.
Arrests include:
-More than 745 fugitives wanted for homicide
-More than 2,275 fugitives wanted for sex offenses
-More than 3,900 fugitives wanted for assault
-More than 2,200 fugitives wanted for robbery
-More than 1,800 fugitives wanted for weapons offenses
-More than 9,000 fugitives wanted for narcotics offenses
The NOVFTF has also seized:
-More than 1,180 firearms
-More than 24,000 rounds of ammunition
-More than 570 kilos of illegal narcotics
-More than $2.2 million in currency
Over the last 10 years, the NOVFTF has excelled as one of the highest performing fugitive task forces in the nation. It has received numerous awards for teamwork and performance.
Recognitions have been received from:
-U.S. Attorney General
-Ohio Attorney General
-Department of Justice
-Director of U.S. Marshals
-Ohio Senate
-Ohio Congress
-National Association of Police Organizations
Much of the success of the NOVFTF can also be attributed to the great partnerships with local media throughout northern Ohio. Utilizing programs such as "Fugitive of the Week," "Toledo's Most Wanted," and "Dangerous Dozen," the NOVFTF has been able to locate and arrest many of these stealthy fugitives with the assistance of the media and concerned citizens.
"I am so proud of the Deputy United States Marshals and our local police officers who have dedicated the last 10 years to the pursuit of the most dangerous fugitives throughout northern Ohio. Their hard work is what has truly made this task force a great success," said Elliott.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of a known fugitive should contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED, or text the keyword "WANTED" and "tip" to 847411. Tipsters can remain anonymous. Reward money is available.
