Atlantic County Man on the Run for 20 Years Captured in Nevada

A fugitive on the run for more than 20 years was apprehended by a detective with the Atlantic County Sheriff's Office working with the U.S. Marshall Service this week.

Zachary Sander, 58 of Egg Harbor Township, was arrested on a first-degree narcotics charge in Nye County, Nevada on Wednesday, May 7, the Atlantic County Sheriff's Office announced Thursday night.

In June of 1992, Sander was found guilty in trial of first degree charges involving heroin, cocaine, possession of controlled dangerous substances, and conspiracy. After the guilty verdict, Sander fled the area prior to his sentencing. A warrant has been out for his arrest since that time.

Det. Anthony Branca from the Atlantic County Sheriff’s Office, currently assigned to the United States Marshall task force, was the lead detective in this case. Through his investigation, Branca received information about the whereabouts of Sander. The resulting arrest was successful with the help of the United States Marshall Service.

“The collaboration of these dedicated law enforcement agencies to bring Zachary Sander into custody without incident demonstrates the high level of professionalism in the law enforcement community in this country,” Sheriff Frank X. Balles said. “Whether a fugitive has been on the run for 20 hours, or as in this case 20 years, we will continue to partner with other agencies to make sure those wanted are brought to justice.”