Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba and U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos Jr. have spearheaded a massive law enforcement operation resulting in hundreds of arrests across New Jersey. The initiative targeted gang members and violent offenders who had been evading justice.

According to Breitbart, the joint operation, dubbed "Operation Apex Hammer," led to the arrest of 264 wanted criminals, including illegal immigrants sought for sex crimes and individuals wanted for murder or sexual offenses. The operation brought together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in a coordinated effort.

Among those apprehended were 17 homicide suspects and 95 gang members, along with others wanted for various violent and sexual crimes. The month-long initiative specifically targeted members of notorious gangs including MS-13, Tren de Aragua, Sex Money Murder-Bloods, and Rolling 60's Crips.

High-Profile Arrests Shock Communities

Two arrests in particular have drawn significant attention from law enforcement officials. Lorenzo Benitez, a 54-year-old Guatemalan immigrant residing illegally in the United States, was apprehended on June 4 in Plainfield, New Jersey.

Benitez faces multiple counts of sexual assault for crimes allegedly committed in Keansburg. His arrest came as part of the broader sweep that prioritized individuals accused of violent offenses.

Another notable arrest involved Darlin Franco-Guzman, a 25-year-old Honduran national in the country illegally. Franco-Guzman was taken into custody on June 10 in Trenton after being wanted in Baltimore County, Maryland, for burglary and the attempted sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl.

Operation Targets Dangerous Gang Activity

Operation Apex Hammer was described by officials as a "one-month statewide violent crime reduction initiative" bringing together multiple levels of law enforcement. The operation's primary focus was identifying and apprehending gang members and violent offenders with active felony warrants.

The initiative specifically targeted members of transnational criminal organizations that have established footholds in New Jersey communities. MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, two particularly violent gangs with origins in Central and South America, were among the primary targets.

Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba emphasized the urgency of the operation, stating, "We are doing multiple cases at once to make sure that we clean up as quickly as possible. Violent crime is number one."

Multi-Agency Approach Yields Results

The success of Operation Apex Hammer has been attributed to the unprecedented level of cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. This collaborative approach allowed authorities to pool resources and intelligence.

U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos Jr. played a crucial role in coordinating the various agencies involved in the operation. The marshals service, with its expertise in fugitive apprehension, provided critical support throughout the initiative.

The operation demonstrates a shift toward more aggressive enforcement actions targeting violent criminals and gang members. Officials have indicated that similar operations may be implemented in other states facing similar challenges with violent crime and gang activity.

Why This Story Matters

This operation highlights the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies in combating violent crime. It also reflects the continuing threat posed by transnational criminal gangs operating in local communities. Finally, the arrests demonstrate the urgency of addressing the safety concerns of everyday residents, many of whom are directly affected by these crimes.

Conclusion

“Operation Apex Hammer” concluded with the arrest of 264 fugitives across New Jersey, including 17 homicide suspects and 95 gang members. Notable arrests involved foreign nationals facing charges for serious crimes such as sexual assault and attempted attacks on minors.

Led by Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba and U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos Jr., the monthlong effort combined local, state, and federal resources to target violent individuals, particularly those associated with gangs like MS-13 and the Rolling 60’s Crips.