The United States Marshals Service Colorado Violent Offender Task Force said Tuesday that a 10-day sweep across Jefferson County had resulted in the apprehension of 24 fugitives wanted for violent offenses.
The campaign, known as Operation Gateway Sweep, began earlier this month and ended Thursday, with agents targeting 30 high-priority fugitives wanted by police in Lakewood, Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Golden, and Jefferson counties, according to a news release from the agency.
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According to the task team, the operation resulted in the clearance of 39 felony warrants and 15 minor warrants. It also included 116 compliance checks for sex offenders in Arvada.
Arrests included allegations ranging from negligent homicide and first-degree assault to child sexual exploitation, kidnapping, arson, and firearms violations.
“This operation is a prime example of how effective and efficient our fugitive task force can be when federal, state, and local agencies work together toward a common goal of getting violent fugitives off the street and behind bars,” said U.S. Marshal Kirk Taylor in a press statement.
Among the prominent arrests was Montana homicide suspect Tisha Naranjo, 46, who was traced down to Lakewood and detained in Denver.
Agents also apprehended a father-son pair, Lee Austin Jr., 53, and Lee Austin III, 35, who were wanted in Wheat Ridge for assault and robbery. According to the agency, the couple has been at large since December 2022.
Colorado, Minnesota, and Texas are all seeking Alexander Lopez, 32; Lance Pillard, 29; and Abraham Agurirre, 32, for child sex crimes.
Several law enforcement agencies in Colorado participated in the operation, including the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.
