Deputy United States Marshal Receives 40 Under 40 Leadership Award at IACP Conference

Source: US Marshals Service

Washington, DC – Deputy United States Marshal (DUSM) Charles Bradley III received the 2023 International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) 40 Under 40 Award at IACP’s annual conference in San Diego on Tuesday, October 17.

This award is given only to 40 top rising leaders in the world, under the age of 40, who exemplify leadership, dedication, and service to their communities and the law enforcement profession. 

Bradley currently serves as a Judicial Security Inspector (JSI), responsible for the safety and security of 35 federal judges and 14 federal facilities, including federal courthouses, in the Eastern District of Virginia. 

“The level of excellence, dedication, and professionalism Deputy Bradley brings daily to his work and to the community, makes him an obvious choice for this award,” said United States Marshals Service Director Ronald L. Davis, who attended the event. “He exemplifies what it means to be a Deputy Marshal, a leader, and role model.”

Bradley felt a calling to the law enforcement profession and to be the positive change he wanted to see. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from North Carolina Central University in 2009, he joined the United States Marshals Service as a DUSM for the Eastern District of Virginia.

“JSI Bradley’s dedication to ensuring the safety of the federal judicial process in the Eastern District of Virginia and his desire to positively affect the communities in this district are a credit to himself and the US Marshals Service,” said Shannon Saylor, United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Virginia. “JSI Bradley is truly deserving of this award.”

Bradley regularly speaks to students at college campuses and high schools about pursuing a career in law enforcement, often acting as a mentor for them as they consider their options.

In 2011, he created an internship program in his district, which brought a more structured and enriching professional learning experience for college students pursuing a career in criminal justice. 

Approximately 30 students have gone through the internship program, several of whom have gone on to begin careers in federal and local law enforcement.

“It’s a privilege to not only be a Deputy United States Marshal and recipient of this prestigious award, but a community member who actively seeks change by interacting with youth directly,” said Bradley.
Bradley has earned several community awards for his outstanding service and dedication. In 2014, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia recognized him with the Public Service Award.

In his off-duty time, Bradley volunteers as a youth basketball coach for a local youth sports organization.

U.S. Marshals and CPD SWAT Arrest Murder Suspect in Columbus

Source: US Marshals Service

Columbus, OH – The U.S. Marshals Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (SOFAST) and Columbus Division of Police (CPD) SWAT arrested fugitive Larry Hutson on October 16, 2023, on an outstanding arrest warrant.

Larry Hutson was wanted by the Columbus Division of Police for Murder and Weapons Under Disability. On August 1, 2023, Hutson was indicted in the Franklin County Common Pleas Court for allegedly using a firearm to shoot and kill Felecia Lane in the 2000 Block of Winslow Drive, Columbus on March 9, 2021. On September 4, 2023, SOFAST adopted the fugitive investigation. With the assistance of CPD SWAT and the CPD K-9 Unit, Hutson was safely apprehended in the 3000 Block of East 7th Ave in Columbus this afternoon. Hutson is now in the custody of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.

“The United States Marshals Service along with our task force partners work daily to remove those accused of the most violent crimes from our community. The teamwork between the dedicated investigators and the tactical expertise of the SWAT professionals and K-9 unit led to another safe arrest of an alleged murder suspect.” – Michael D. Black, United States Marshal.

Columbus SOFAST is a fugitive-focused, U.S. Marshals Service-led task force consisting of local, state and federal authorities including the Columbus Division of Police, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Bexley Police Department, Cambridge Police Department, Capital University Police Department, Delaware County Probation Office, Groveport Police Department, Hocking County Sheriff’s Office, Lancaster Police Department, Mount Vernon Police Department, Ohio Attorney General Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal, Office of Inspector General Social Security Administration, United States

Attorney’s Office, Utica Police Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Whitehall Police Department, and Zanesville Police Department.

Anyone with information on any fugitive may submit an anonymous USMS Web Tip.

Telephone Scammers At It Again

Source: US Marshals Service

San Antonio, TX – The U.S. Marshals Service is warning the public of a telephone scam involving a fraudulent caller contacting individuals, threatening arrest and demanding payment of fines.

Recently, there were reported attempts of a fraudulent caller who identified himself as a Deputy United States Marshal. This phony law enforcement officer informed the potential victims that arrest warrants were being issued for them or their family member due to failure of appearance in court. The potential victims were then informed they could avoid arrest by paying a fine through electronic fund transfer or cashier’s check. The Marshals Service became aware of the scam after receiving several calls from concerned citizens.

“The U.S. Marshals Service is a federal law enforcement agency and does not seek payment of fines or fees via the telephone for individuals with outstanding arrest warrants,” said U.S. Marshal Susan Pamerleau. “Citizens should not divulge personal or financial information to unknown callers.”

If you believe you are a victim of fraud, report the incident through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. Also, you should report online, business or phone scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) immediately at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (San Antonio):

  • New Braunfels Police Department
  • Bexar County Sheriff’s Office
  • Bexar County District Attorney’s Office
  • Texas Office of the Attorney General
  • Texas Department of Public Safety
  • Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Office of the Inspector General
  • Immigration & Customs Enforcement – Office of Detention & Removal
  • U.S. Marshals Service 
     

U.S. Marshals Searching for 2nd Morgan State Shooter

Source: US Marshals Service

Washington, DC – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Jovon Terrell Williams, 18, a man wanted for his involvement in a shooting incident that took place Oct. 3. In this case, five people were wounded and had to be transported to the hospital after violence erupted during the homecoming celebration events at Morgan State University. 

Williams was charged Oct. 11 by the District Court of Maryland for Baltimore City with attempted first-degree murder and other charges stemming from the shooting incident.

On Oct. 12, the U.S. Marshals arrested a 17-year-old juvenile who was charged as a co-defendant in the Morgan State shooting.

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued an arrest warrant June 15, charging Williams in a guns and drug conspiracy case.  This case was being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the USMS and the Internal Revenue Service.  On July 14, the Drug Enforcement Administration referred apprehension authority to the U.S. Marshals Service.

The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to Williams’ arrest. Additionally, Metro Crime Stoppers and ATF are offering a reward of up to $9,000 for tips leading to an arrest and charges filed.

Williams should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information is urged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 or submit tips via the USMS Tips App. Individuals with time-sensitive information can also contact Deputy U.S. Marshal Maresca directly at (202) 819-5058.

U.S. Marshals: Update in the Search for Pedro Manuel Argote

Source: US Marshals Service

Baltimore, MD – Law enforcement officials have located a vehicle believed to have been operated by Pedro Manuel Argote, 49, a man suspected of murdering a Maryland Circuit Court Judge. According to information provided by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the 2009 Mercedes GL 450 was located Oct. 21 at approximately 11 a.m. The SUV bearing Maryland registration 4EH0408, was found in a wooded area off Bottom Road in Williamsport, Maryland. 

On Oct. 19, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 19100 block of Olde Waterford Road in Hagerstown, Maryland, in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies observed that the victim had sustained gunshot wounds. 

The victim, a Maryland Circuit Court Judge, was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Argote has ties to multiple locations beyond the state of Maryland to include Brooklyn and Long Island, New York; Tampa and Clearwater, Florida; Columbus, Indiana; and unknown cities in North Carolina. 

The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to Argote’s arrest. Argote should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information is urged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 or submit tips via the USMS Tips App

U.S. Marshals Arrest Murder Fugitive in 2022 Shooting Near Roxborough High School

Source: US Marshals Service

Philadelphia, PA – On October 23rd, at approximately 1:45 p.m., members of the U.S. Marshals Eastern Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force, arrested Dayron Burney-Thorn, 17, in the 200 block of West Walnut Lane in Philadelphia. Burney-Thorn was wanted for the September 27th, 2022, shooting death of a 14-year-old juvenile which occurred near Roxborough High School. He was also wanted for a separate homicide which occurred on September 26th, 2022, in the 600 block of N. 13th street in Philadelphia.

For the past few months, Deputy Marshals had developed information Burney-Thorn may be back in the Philadelphia area. Early this morning, investigators developed information Burney-Thorn may be presently in an apartment in the 200 block of West Walnut Lane in the Germantown section of Philadelphia. At approximately 1:45 p.m., members of the fugitive task force surrounded the apartment complex and knocked and announced their presence.  After attempting to stall investigators, Burney-Thorn opened an exterior window of the 4th floor apartment and jumped out in an attempt to flee. Task Force Officers who were on the ground then struggled with Burney-Thorn before he was successfully placed in custody. Burney-Thorn was then transported by Philadelphia medics to a local hospital for medical treatment.

Eric Gartner, United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania stated, “Burney-Thorn’s capture sends a clear message that we never cease in our pursuit of bringing violent fugitives to justice. Our thoughts remain with Meredith Elizalde, who lost her only son Nicholas in this tragic murder, and hope this last arrest can bring some closure to Nicolas’ classmates and teammates at Roxborough High School.” 

The Eastern Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force is a team of law enforcement officers led by U.S. Marshals in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. The task force’s objective is to seek out and arrest violent crime fugitives. Membership agencies include the Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania State Parole Officers, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General Agents, Immigration Customs Enforcement, Chester Police Department, Bucks County Sheriffs, and Delaware County Sheriffs.

Pedro Manuel Argote

Source: US Marshals Service

NOTICE TO LAW ENFORCEMENT: Before arrest, verify warrant through the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). If subject is arrested or whereabouts known, contact the nearest U.S. Marshals Service office, American Embassy/Consulate, call the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using U.S. Marshals Service Tips.

U.S. Marshals Searching for Fugitive Wanted for the Murder of a State Judge

Source: US Marshals Service

Baltimore, MD – The U.S. Marshals Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Pedro Manuel Argote, 49, a man suspected of murdering a Maryland Circuit Court Judge.

On Oct. 19, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 19100 block of Olde Waterford Road in Hagerstown, Maryland, in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies observed that the victim had sustained gunshot wounds. 

The victim, a Maryland Circuit Court Judge, was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Law enforcement officials believe Argote is possibly operating a silver 2009 Mercedes GL 450 bearing Maryland registration 4EH0408.

Argote has ties to multiple locations beyond the state of Maryland to include Brooklyn and Long Island, New York; Tampa and Clearwater, Florida; Columbus, Indiana; and unknown cities in North Carolina. 

The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to Argote’s arrest. Argote should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information is urged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 or submit tips via the USMS Tips App

U.S. Marshals Arrest Escaped Inmate from State Facility

Source: US Marshals Service

Canton, OH – The U.S. Marshals led Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) in Canton, OH arrested Daniel Hilty (35) earlier today on charges of escape from the Canton Police Department, stemming from an incident that occurred at the state run Stark Regional Community Correction Center. Hilty was also wanted for Intensive Supervision Probation (ISP) Violation from Stark County Sheriff’s Office and Drug Possession from the Niles Police Department. 

On October 3, 2023, Hilty was court ordered to enter and successfully complete the residential program at Stark Regional Community Correction Center. It is alleged that on October 11, 2023, Hilty used chairs to climb up a drainpipe and then scaled the roof to ultimately escape from the facility.  Hilty was in the program a total of eight days before escaping the confines of the correction center.

The NOVFTF and the Stark Regional Community Correction Center began investigating Hilty’s whereabouts in the Canton, OH area immediately following the escape. The NOVFTF was able to locate and arrest Hilty today at an address in the 200 block of Scott Avenue, Niles, OH.

Through a joint statement by U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott and Stark County Sheriff George Maier: “Due to our strong partnerships and the joint efforts of our task force agencies, we were able to safely apprehend this fugitive.  It was a great effort by all involved to stay focused on this case and help ensure the safety of the community by getting this fugitive off the streets.” 

Anyone with information concerning a wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833), or you can submit a web tip. Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous.  

Follow the U.S. Marshals on Twitter @USMSCleveland.  

Houston Murder Suspect Accused of Killing His Own Brother Caught by U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force in Colorado

Source: US Marshals Service

Denver, CO – The U.S. Marshals Service Colorado Violent Offender Task Force (COVOTF), with the assistance of the Louisville (CO) Police Department and Dept. of Homeland Security’s Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), located and arrested a Texas (TX) homicide suspect earlier this afternoon. Fugitive Cory M. Kellett, 29, was apprehended on Friday, October 27, 2023, in Louisville, CO.

Kellett is wanted by the Houston, TX Police Department and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office on felony arrest warrants for murder as well as aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Those charges are in relation to a stabbing incident which occurred in front of a residence in the 8200 block of Garden Parks Drive in Houston on September 28, 2023. That incident left a 23-year-old male deceased, who was later identified as Kellett’s younger brother, Robert Payne Stewart. 

The U.S. Marshals Service’s Southern District of Texas Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitive Task Force in Houston provided information they had obtained indicating Kellett may have fled to and be hiding in either the Denver metro or Boulder County, Colorado area. This information was relayed to the U.S. Marshals COVOTF in Denver, CO.

U.S. Marshals Service investigators, with the direct assistance of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Task Force Officers as well as the Louisville Police Department were able to locate and identify Kellett outside of a business near Main Street and Walnut Street in the downtown Louisville area. Kellett was transported by Louisville P.D. to the Boulder County Jail where he was booked on the outstanding arrest warrants. He is awaiting extradition back to Houston. 

The arrest of this fugitive represents a culmination of extensive cooperative investigative efforts between the Houston Police Department, U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitive Task Force, U.S. Marshals Colorado Violent Offender Task Force, Louisville Police Department, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 

The Colorado Violent Offender Task Force (COVOTF) is a multi-jurisdictional fugitive task force that targets the most violent offenders to include those wanted for murder, assault, sex offenses, and other serious offenses throughout the state and country.  Nationally, the U.S. Marshals Service fugitive programs are carried out with local law enforcement in 94 district offices, 85 local fugitive task forces, eight regional task forces, as well as a growing network of offices in foreign countries.          

Tips can be submitted to the U.S. Marshals Service directly and anonymously by downloading the USMS Tips app to your Apple or Android device. You can also follow the latest news and updates about the U.S. Marshals Service on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter); @USMarshalsHQ or @USMSDenver.