On a bustling Tuesday afternoon, the Dallas Police Department’s Fugitive Unit is actively pursuing violent felons as part of their ongoing initiative, Operation Justice Trail.
With notable success in recent arrests throughout Dallas, the unit is now tracking a particularly dangerous individual who has been reported in Mesquite.
An undercover member of the fugitive unit shared concerns about the suspect, stating, ‘I mean, he’s threatened to kill police a lot, he’s driving around with a gun.’
Further complicating the situation, the fugitive has communicated with a friend, indicating a refusal to return to jail and a willingness to engage in a shootout with law enforcement.
In anticipation of potential dangers, undercover officers are prepared to respond quickly, designating Baylor Hospital as their emergency destination should the need arise.
As the team remains on standby, another urgent call arrives about a different fugitive, reportedly sighted in Frisco.
“He’s about 5’10, last seen wearing a bright neon pink hoodie,” an undercover officer noted.
This suspect is wanted for serious charges, including compelling prostitution involving a minor, with ties to trafficking a young girl on Harry Hines Boulevard.
The unit has crafted a strategic approach for the day, elaborating, “Plan of attack today is we’re going to come out here, we’re going to work the backside.”
These arrest efforts are part of a broader strategy spearheaded by Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux through Operation Justice Trail, which he describes as an aggressive initiative to identify and apprehend the most dangerous offenders in the city.
From May to June, collaboration between the Dallas Police Department Fugitive Unit and the U.S. Marshals North Texas Fugitive Task Force resulted in the capture of 197 fugitives, with their combined criminal backgrounds accounting for over 1,300 arrests.
Assistant Chief Catrina Shead, leading the Tactical & Special Ops Bureau, emphasizes the simplified mission of targeting the most violent offenders who present a high risk of reoffending.
“Our focus includes murders, aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, sexual crimes, and aggravated crimes against children,” Shead explained.
Aiming to bolster their efforts, the fugitive unit is shifting its focus this summer towards gang-related arrests, partnering with North Texas Crime Stoppers for the first time.
This collaboration offers a $1,000 reward for tips leading to the arrests of Dallas fugitives, hoping to incentivize community participation.
Shead stresses the importance of these arrests not just for crime prevention but to reinforce community safety, stating, “Once you get these individuals in custody, they understand that, and now we are watching. Violent crime is not just about arresting individuals. It’s about making sure the community knows that this is a safe place to stay, live, and work.”
Operation Justice Trail unfolds concurrently with significant legislation signed into effect by Governor Greg Abbott, deemed the largest bail reform in Texas history, which is set to be implemented in September.
Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot highlighted that this new legislation establishes a public safety reporting system intended to aid judges in making informed bond decisions.
According to Creuzot, the system aims to prevent the release of individuals likely to commit further crimes following their initial arrests, creating a safer environment for the community.
He expressed frustration over the challenges faced by law enforcement and legal authorities, acknowledging the risks posed to families and the broader community: ‘It’s frustrating for the police, it’s frustrating for us, and certainly frustrating for the family, and, of course, it’s dangerous for everybody else in the community.’
As the undercover unit prepares for potential encounters, one officer conveyed urgency: ‘If he comes out and runs down that hallway, he’s yours.’
Assistant Chief Shead remains steadfast in the commitment to apprehend these violent fugitives, articulating the clear message: ‘We’re coming after you, we are.’
The opportunity to submit tips for the North Texas Crime Stoppers’ reward will continue through August 31, while anonymous reports can be made by calling 1-877-373-TIPS.
image source from：nbcdfw
