Over 8,000 fugitives arrested in massive operation by U.S. Marshals Service

Violent criminals were captured across the country as part of a six-week initiative called Operation Violence Reduction 12, the U.S. Marshals Service announced on Wednesday. The initiative took place between Feb. 11 and March 11, and resulted in the arrest of gang members, sex offenders and other dangerous fugitives.

"Through Operation VR-12, over 8,000 violent fugitives who preyed on our communities were tracked down, arrested and put behind bars," said Deputy Attorney General Yates in a press release. "Thanks to the strategic and focused efforts of the U.S. Marshals Service and their law enforcement partners, our nation's streets are now rid of over 500 accused murderers, 600 gang members and nearly 1,000 sex offenders."

The operation targeted individuals who had three or more prior felony arrests for crimes like murder, robbery, abduction/kidnapping and sexual assault, the organization said. While the operation was conducted nationwide, the U.S. Marshals Service says they focused on 12 areas experiencing increased violent crime:

BaltimoreBrooklyn, N.Y.Camden, N.J.ChicagoCompton, Calif.Fresno, Calif.Gary, Ind.MilwaukeeNew OrleansOakland, Calif.Savannah, Ga.Washington, D.C.

"By removing these violent offenders from the streets, the communities they preyed upon can immediately feel more secure," said Deputy Director David Harlow.