LITTLE ROCK, Ark.- A U.S. Marshals-led national operation targeting violent crime offenders is now being celebrated as a success in Little Rock.
The 74-day effort called Operation North Star ended with 163 fugitives arrested in Little Rock. An accomplishment for Arkansas state police and other task force members who helped.
US Marshals Service national operation includes 163 Arkansas arrests, DeValls Bluff shootout
Major Russel King, a part of LRPD’s special investigations division, said they’ve seen a difference in numbers.
“We’ve seen an overall reduction in violent crime by about 4% and the most significant reduction in our homicide rate which is down 27%,” King said.
Lakesia Smith, a mother and advocate for the organization Parents of Murdered Children, was proud to hear the news.
“I’m happy they’re stepping up and I’m happy they’re getting through this,” Smith said.
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Those arrested were charged for homicides, sexual assault, robbery, aggravated assault and firearm violations. The arrests come as a relief for Smith after pushing to get criminals off the streets