The U.S. Marshals Service arrested 268 fugitives, gang members and violent offenders as part of Operation Triple Beam.
The operation was a Marshals-led, proactive gang enforcement program that coordinated partnerships between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, as well as the federal, state and local prosecutors' offices. This operation concentrated on Omaha and Lincoln.
Operation Triple Beam focused on three main areas: fugitive investigations, targeted firearms and drug investigations, and proactive street investigations and patrols. Marshals conducted operations in six locations: Omaha/Lincoln; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Phoenix, Arizona; Syracuse, New York; Birmingham, Alabama; and Hattiesburg, Mississippi. From June 1st to September 1st, the operation resulted in 208 felony arrests, including 75 gang members, and the seizure of 101 firearms, illegal narcotics valued at more than $443,256.60, and approximately $11,202 in cash
One significant case developed during the operation was the arrest of Joseph Harris and Shamar Dortch. Investigators conducted a fugitive investigation to locate Harris, who was wanted for a probation violation for felony theft. The investigation resulted in the arrests of Harris and Dortch, the seizure of a firearm and 1.3 pounds of marijuana with a street value of more than $13,000.
U.S. Marshal for the District of Nebraska Mark Martinez said, "This fifth version of OTB again proved to be a successful gang violence operation with the arrest of 75 gang members on felony charges and the seizure of 101 various types of firearms, a large quantity of illegal narcotics and over $11,000.00 in U.S. currency. I am confident this outstanding effort sends a strong message to the gang criminal element and has improved community safety."
Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said, "The USMS continues to be a valued partner in addressing gang and gun violence in our city. Operation Triple Beam certainly contributed to a reduction of violent crime during our summer months, I want to thank the USMS for their partnership."
