Operation North Star II (ONS II) targeted high-crime areas where murders and violent crimes have been spiking. 833 fugitives were arrested in a series of crackdowns last month. The operation to get violent criminals off the street took place across 10 cities in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Interagency law enforcement operations, such as ONS II, have developed from regional and district task forces. The Marshals Service, in particular, offers its resources and expertise to aid local, state, and federal agencies.

A press release from the Department of Justice on Monday announced that the U.S. Marshals Service had ended the current activity on ONS II.

“This 30-day initiative resulted in the arrest of 833 fugitives, violent criminals, sex offenders, and self-identified gang members in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Buffalo, New York; Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio; Detroit, Michigan; Jackson, Mississippi; Kansas City, Missouri; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Oakland, California; and Puerto Rico.”

“ONS II focused on fugitives wanted for the most serious, violent, and harmful offenses including homicide, forcible sexual assault, robbery, or aggravated assault. ONS II investigators prioritized their efforts to include individuals using firearms in their crimes, or who exhibited risk factors associated with violence.”

The high-impact fugitive apprehension initiative was designed to reduce violent crime in the most dangerous cities.

Operation North Star II a success

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said that “The results of this operation should make clear that the Justice Department and our partners across the country will stop at nothing to find and bring to justice those responsible for violent crime.” 

 “The U.S. Marshals Service, and the entire Justice Department, will continue to work in partnership with community leaders and law enforcement professionals nationwide to protect our communities.”

Director Ronald Davis of the U.S. Marshals Service said, "The U.S. Marshals Service remains steadfast in its commitment to assisting law enforcement and community leaders at all levels to combat violent crime.” 

 “The success of ONS II is based on its laser focus on the most significant drivers of violence. We are confident that apprehending these offenders will bring a level of justice to their victims and contribute to the overall violence reduction efforts in each city,” Davis added.

The February arrest warrant raids brought in suspects wanted on charges of homicide and sexual assault. And also netted 181 firearms, over $229,000 in currency, and more than 160 kilograms of illegal narcotics, officials said.