by Anne Stjern

Created on: August 18, 2011   Last Updated: August 19, 2011

The iconic Western film image of the unflappable U.S. Marshal setting off across the open prairie, prisoner in tow, has done much to define the public idea of the profession. Present day television dramas frequently depict the U.S. Marshals Service as hard-core law enforcement bent on capturing dangerous fugitives or stoically protecting high profile witnesses, even if they are as bad as the criminals that are on trial. Exciting stuff, certainly, but how close to reality are these portrayals.

Oldest Law Enforcement Organization in the United States

Established in 1789, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) was created to provide protection for judicial districts. Originally tasked with enforcing federal law and ensuring the security of the federal courts, the services continues to protect judges, witnesses, jurors, prisoners and all personnel associated with the federal court system. They also provide security for the U.S. Attorney’s office and personnel. However, these responsibilities are only a few of the diverse duties performed by the USMS.

Fugitive Investigations and Capture

Tracking, capturing, and detaining fugitives on the run from federal warrants is one of the primary jobs of the USMS. Using up-to-the-minute technology, field investigations, and surveillance techniques, Deputy Marshals successfully closed more than 52,000 federal warrants in 2010. Individuals wanted in homicide cases, sex offenders, gang and drug related crimes make up the majority of the warrants served although financially based crimes such as money laundering and fraud are also part of the Marshals Service recovery operations. Marshals also handle extradition of criminals wanted by law enforcement organizations throughout the world and repatriation of individuals wanted on U.S. warrants who are captured in other countries.

The Witness Security Program

The Witness Security Program, Wit Sec, has been in operation since 1971. Established by the Justice Department to aid the U.S. Attorney’s office secure valuable testimony against some of the most dangerous felons and crime syndicates. High-risk witnesses and their families are given full-time protection during pre-trial, trial, and related court proceedings. At a minimum, those entering the program are relocated, given new identities and financial assistance for basic living expenses during the initial settling-in period. Approximately 20,000 people have entered the Witness Security Program, none of whom has been harmed while

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