The FBI’s Phoenix Field Office said Thursday that it has apprehended 411 people in recent months, as the feds focuses on tackling violent crime and finding dangerous fugitives around the country.
According to federal officials, all 56 FBI field offices in the United focusStates engaged in the “Summer Heat” effort, which aimed to execute warrants for wanted criminals, dismantle violent gangs, and find and save child victims.
While the majority of the arrests were of fugitives, gang members, and those wanted for crimes committed on federal Indian reservations and villages, 15 were charged with violent crimes against children, and 103 children were rescued, according to the authorities. In addition, agents recovered 59 firearms and 63 drugs.
“Crushing violent crime remains a top priority for FBI Phoenix and is a responsibility we all share,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners and deploy all resources necessary to strengthen the safety in our neighborhoods and reduce violent crime.”
The FBI reported that the investigation resulted in 8,629 arrests nationwide and the identification or location of 1,053 child victims. More than 97,000 pounds of cocaine were seized, along with around 928 pounds of fentanyl and 2,281 firearms.