Marshals’ new tactic calls for tips via texting

Staff report

Cleveland

Texting and using a website are two new ways for the public to give anonymous tips to the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force, U.S. Marshal Peter J. Elliott said.

The task force now can receive tips via text messages. Send a tip by texting keyword “WANTED” and the tip to 847411 (tip411).

The marshals made their first arrest using the texting system last week when they arrested Cameron L. Stewart, 29, who was wanted out of Tempe, Ariz., on charges of conspiracy to sell/transport marijuana and possession of marijuana. The text-message tip led the marshals to a Toledo residence, where the arrest was made.

Investigators can view the tip and ask for follow-up information. The tipster can continue the text conversation or terminate communication. Regular text fees will apply based on the tipsters’ service plan.

Tipsters and their phone numbers remain anonymous to law enforcement unless tipsters choose to identify themselves.

Tipsters also can submit a web tip by going to www.usmarshals.gov/district/oh-n/fugitives to view pictures of the task force’s most-wanted “Dangerous Dozen.”

On that page, Internet users have the ability to click a button that will redirect the user to the website to submit a web tip. The tipster will be anonymous.

Previously, tipsters were limited to calling in tips to the toll free hot line 866-4WANTED. This method remains in place and has been successful.

Cash rewards are available for information that leads to the arrest of a wanted fugitive, and these rewards vary based on each case and situation.

The U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force has had success since it began in 2003.

The task force has arrested 25,000 fugitives, and many of the arrests have been the direct result of tips from the public.

The task force operates throughout Ohio’s 40 northernmost counties.