Law Enforcement Crackdown Nets 264 Criminals in New Jersey

An extensive law enforcement operation successfully detained 264 wanted fugitives across New Jersey, targeting individuals involved in serious crimes such as murder, robbery, and sexual offenses, including assaults against minors.

The operation, dubbed “Operation Apex Hammer,” involved federal, state, and local agencies working together to apprehend dangerous suspects. Among those captured were 17 individuals wanted for homicide and 95 suspected gang members wanted for violent and sexual crimes.

Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba emphasized the importance of collaboration among agencies, describing the operation as a significant achievement in reducing violent crime and enhancing public safety.

Of those arrested, two were confirmed illegal immigrants, and the suspects collectively had approximately 2,625 prior arrests, averaging about 10 per individual. For example, Lorenzo Benitez, a 54-year-old Guatemalan, was detained on June 4 in Plainfield for multiple counts of sexual assault. Darlin Franco-Guzman, 25, an illegal Honduran immigrant, was wanted for burglary and attempted sexual assault of a minor in Baltimore County and arrested in Trenton on June 10.

The crime spectrum among the fugitives ranged from kidnapping and sex offenses to a drive-by shooting murder. Notably, Stephen Bullock, 32, was apprehended after allegedly kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 76-year-old woman. Shawn Davis, 38, was arrested in Brooklyn for a 2024 homicide in Trenton. Luis Duval-Jimenez, 31, was sought for allegedly running over a police officer, and Trasuf Bennett, 20, along with a juvenile, were arrested for a drive-by shooting that resulted in a man’s death in Milleville.

During the operation, authorities also seized 14 illegal firearms. One of the targets, Francisco Ruiz, 67, wanted for sexual contact and other charges, was captured on June 20 in Bayonne.

The coordinated effort demonstrates a strong commitment to removing violent offenders from the streets and curbing organized criminal activity.