Violent Gang Member Back Behind Bars

Albuquerque, NM - Deputy U.S. Marshals and Task Force Officers assigned to the Marshals Service South West Investigative Fugitive Team (SWIFT) Task Force along with officers of the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) arrested fugitive James Garcia. Garcia was wanted by the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office for state charges that included Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of Firearm or Destructive Device by a Felon, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Use or Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

During the initial fugitive investigation, SWIFT Task Force Investigators developed information that Garcia was a validated Lomas 13 gang member with an extensive criminal history. In prior arrests Garcia was allegedly found with ballistic vests, ammunition, and a firearm.

On July 11, in the evening hours SWIFT Task Force Investigators observed Garcia driving in a late model pickup truck. Subsequently, SWIFT Task Force Investigators and BCSO Deputies approached the vehicle and took Garcia into custody. Garcia was once again arrested with drugs, a handgun, ammunition, and ballistic materials. Garcia is currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. The District of New Mexico United States Marshal said "the Marshals Service is committed to the overall public safety and enhanced quality of life for every citizen. This is accomplished by emphasizing cooperation and partnership with every law enforcement agency within New Mexico for the sole purpose of apprehending the most dangerous fugitives. Our citizens and communities are much safer because this fugitive is behind bars awaiting justice"