The U.S. Marshals Service Montana Violent Offender Task Force (MVOTF) marked its 20th anniversary, highlighting its collaboration with federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies in arresting violent fugitives on felony warrants. The task force has closed a total of 22,520 warrants in Montana, across the United States, and globally.
U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich and U.S. Marshal Craig Anderson discussed the mission and achievements of the MVOTF during a press conference held at the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Former U.S. Marshals Darrell J. Bell and Dwight MacKay, along with representatives from 41 partner law enforcement agencies, joined the celebration.
U.S. Attorney Laslovich acknowledged the efforts of those involved: “For 20 years, the brave people who have served on the Montana Violent Offender Task Force have consistently risked their own lives to keep all of us safe.” He emphasized the significance of their work: “They are the best of our state and nation.”
U.S. Marshal Anderson highlighted the cooperation among various agencies: “There is one over-arching and significant takeaway... when law enforcement agencies from tribal, local, county, state and federal agencies coalesced around the mission of tracking down Montana’s most dangerous criminals, these are the results that followed.”
The MVOTF was established in 2005 under the Presidential Threat Protection Act with direction from the Attorney General as one of five similar task forces nationwide. The task force consists of federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies working together to locate and apprehend fugitives.
Since its inception, MVOTF has seized a total of 531 firearms and various narcotics including methamphetamine and fentanyl pills. Additionally, it has resulted in seizures of vehicles and both legitimate and counterfeit currency.
To honor two decades of service to Montana and beyond, a commemorative patch will be awarded to current and past members as well as participating agencies.