Operation Apex Hammer: A Decisive Strike Against Violent Crime
In an unprecedented crackdown on crime, federal authorities have apprehended 264 dangerous criminals in New Jersey, including two illegal migrants whose heinous acts include sexual assault. This sweeping operation, aptly named “Operation Apex Hammer,” has taken aim at the most egregious offenders, targeting individuals wanted for murder, robbery, and grave sexual offenses, some involving children.
Among those arrested, 17 individuals are homicide suspects, and 95 are gang members entangled in a web of violent and sexual crimes. This is not just a successful operation; it’s a clear message that law enforcement is serious about restoring safety and security to our communities.
U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos Jr. and Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba have rightly called this collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies a monumental success. “We are executing multiple cases simultaneously to ensure a rapid cleanup of our streets,” Habba stated unequivocally. “Violent crime is our top priority, and this administration is singularly focused on addressing it.”
Crucially, among the arrested suspects, two were found to be illegal immigrants. They collectively boasted an alarming 2,625 prior arrests—approximately 10 arrests each. This staggering statistic underscores the failure of lenient immigration policies that allow violent criminals to slip through the cracks.
Lorenzo Benitez, a 54-year-old illegal Guatemalan immigrant, was arrested for multiple counts of sexual assault in Keansburg, New Jersey. Similarly, Darlin Franco-Guzman, 25, an illegal immigrant from Honduras wanted for burglary and attempting to sexually assault a 12-year-old girl, was arrested in Trenton.
The breadth of violent crimes perpetrated by these fugitives is chilling, including kidnapping, sexual assault, and even a drive-by shooting. Notable captures include Stephen Bullock, who allegedly kidnapped and assaulted a 76-year-old woman, and Shawn Davis, implicated in a homicide in Trenton.
In total, these fugitives represented a serious threat to society, with offenses that showcased a blatant disregard for human life and safety. Francisco Ruiz, 67, was apprehended for a slew of charges, including sexual assault and endangerment of a child.
As a part of this operation, law enforcement seized 14 illegal firearms, revealing yet another layer of danger these criminals posed.
Operation Apex Hammer stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to public safety. It highlights the urgent need for strict law enforcement and no-nonsense immigration policies, as our communities deserve nothing less than a safe, secure environment. America is taking a stand, and it’s refusing to back down in the fight against crime.
