153 arrested during 'Operation Patriot' busts near military communities
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- Authorities made more than 100 arrests during a three-day bust they called "Operation Patriot."
Agents went after suspects with outstanding warrants and people who may be violating their probation.
They found 153 lawbreakers, who were trying to avoid prosecution, as well as four firearms and more than $4,000 in cash.
U.S. Marshals say the operation was aimed at finding parole and probation violators, as well as other criminals around four military communities in Cumberland, Wayne, Onslow, and New Hanover counties.
Officers said they wanted veterans and active duty troops to feel safer in their homes.
"There is a lot of initiatives going towards our veterans for the quality of life, and we thought what better way to serve our communities who protect the flag, protect those overseas, current U.S, interests," said Johnny Hawkins, with the Department of public safety.
"The individuals that they removed off the streets this week, I mean these are people we don't want in our community," said U.S. Marshal Scott Parker. "We wanted that community to be safe. So that's what happened."
Officers issued over 300 search warrants, rounding up who they called the worst of the worst criminals.
