U.S. Marshals collected cash, drugs and firearms during the Summer Burn Operation that nabbed 195 fugitives. (Photo: U.S. Marshals)
U.S. Marshals netted 195 fugitives in an operation termed Summer Burn aimed at nabbing violent career criminals in Arizona early Saturday morning.
Focused on the areas of west Phoenix and central Chandler, the two-month operation concentrated on bringing in criminals affiliated with gangs. Identification and documentation of key members within street gangs better helps law enforcement prevent offenses connected to gang activities.
Of the 195 fugitives, two were arrested for homicide, 25 for sex offenses, 25 for aggravated assault, 85 for dangerous drug offenses, 16 for robbery, 17 for firearms related offenses and 22 additional arrests for violent crimes. During the raid, 22 firearms were seized along with a slew of cocaine, heroin, marijuana and methamphetamine. Some $134,000 in cash was also retrieved.
In total, 48 fugitives were identified as belonging to or affiliated with criminal street gangs.
A spokesperson for the Marshals said the group was pleased with the outcome of Summer Burn and will continue to devote resources to ending gang activity.
“The arrest of 195 fugitives demonstrates the successful outcome of a focused effort to arrest violent offenders and reduce future crime victims,” said U.S. Marshal David Gonzales in a statement. “Organized street gangs continue to be a major problem in our communities and the U.S. Marshals Service, working with our state and local partners, will continue to make them a high priority in our enforcement efforts.”
The initiative was a collaboration with several local police departments as well as the Arizona Department of Public Safety, Maricopa County Adult Probation, Maricopa Attorney’s Office and Arizona Department of Corrections.
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