Newark Police Arrest 18 Wanted Persons During ‘Fugitive Sweep’

NEWARK, NJ — Newark police and federal law enforcement officers recently held a “fugitive sweep” in the city, arresting 18 wanted persons, authorities announced Thursday.

According to the Newark Department of Public Safety, some of the arrestees have been charged with offenses such as aggravated assault, weapon possession, drug distribution and robbery. Others face lesser charges, such as receiving stolen property and contempt.

Police also seized three handguns during the sweep, authorities said.

The sweep – which was conducted throughout the month of June – was done in partnership with federal law enforcement partners from the U.S. Marshal Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

“Historically, there’s an increase in violence statewide between May and September,” Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé said.

“In Newark, our goal is to turn that trend around this summer by ensuring that people with outstanding warrants are brought to justice before they have the opportunity to engage in any violent criminal acts,” Fragé said. “The recovery of three illegal handguns as part of these arrests shows that the potential for violence occurring was already present.”

• See Related: Here's How Newark Plans To Fight Crime This Summer (VIDEO)

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