U.S. Marshals' Operation Sand Storm ends, nets 164 felony fugitives in El Paso County

by John Hall \ El Paso Times
Posted: 05/13/2011 05:30:12 PM MDT

A task force of 76 officers lead by the U.S. Marshals Service wrapped up Operation Sand Storm Friday, a week long fugitive round up that netted a total of 164 felony fugitives.

The roundup also cleared a total of 267 federal and state felony warrants.

"This operation was an overwhelming success, we've taken some incredibly violent and dangerous criminals off the streets of El Paso County," said Robert Almonte, U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Texas.

"Their crimes range form attempted murder, drug charges and aggravated sexual assault of a child."

The task force included officers from the El Paso Police Department. the El Paso County Sheriffs Office, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Texas Rangers, local constables and more. In all 16 agencies contributed manpower and resources to the pursuit of the fugitives.

"We want the public to know that federal resources and local resources are working in very corner of the county, the state and the nation to ensure their safety," Almonte said.

John Hall may be reached at jhall@elpasotimes.com; 546-6371.

http://www.elpasotimes.com/newupdated/ci_18058912