The national spotlight is on the U.S.. Marshals here in Northern Ohio as the district received two national awards.
The awards were presented at the 36th Director's Honorary Awards Ceremony at the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday.
The Northern District of Ohio was selected for the Distinguished District Award from 94 Marshal Service districts throughout the country and U.S. territories. The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force was also recognized with the Outstanding Fugitive Task Force Award. Since it was created in 2003, the task force has arrested more than 40,000 fugitives for violent crimes like murder, rape and robbery.
"I think it works because of our partnerships with other agencies. We're now up to 125 agencies that partner with us," said U.S. Marshal of the Northern Ohio District Pete Elliott.
The NOVFTF is made up of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
"These are outstanding honors and well deserved recognition for the dedicated men and women who make up our district and for all of the officers and leaders who contribute to the great success of our Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force," added Elliott.
"The courts appreciate and respect all of their hard work and congratulate them on this honor," said Chief Judge for the Northern District of Ohio Patricia Gaughan.
