More than 60 criminal offenders were apprehended this week in southern Illinois during a coordinated, multi-agency operation aimed at strengthening public safety ahead of the holiday season.
FBI Director Kash Patel hailed the effort as a major success, noting that it disrupted violent crime and enhanced security in communities across the region.
The initiative, called “Operation Safe Christmas,” specifically targeted individuals involved in violent offenses and narcotics distribution.
Authorities reported that the operation resulted in the seizure of 2.5 pounds of illegal drugs and $15,000 in U.S. currency, illustrating the breadth of criminal activity addressed over the course of seven days.
Arrests were carried out across Bond, Effingham, Fayette, Madison and St. Clair counties, covering urban and rural areas in southern Illinois.
At least one fugitive was apprehended in Atlanta, Georgia, demonstrating the operation’s reach beyond state lines.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the sweep reflects the efficiency of federal, state, and local agencies working together to apprehend dangerous individuals and protect the public.
“The operation reflects extensive planning and cooperation across multiple agencies,” U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said in a press release.
He noted that those arrested included a suspect linked to a Dec. 5 shooting involving a Granite City police officer, highlighting the serious threats addressed during the operation.
Leading the field effort, the U.S. Marshals Service Southern District of Illinois Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force coordinated closely with FBI Springfield, Illinois State Police, ATF Chicago and the DEA St. Louis Field Division.
Numerous local police departments and sheriff’s offices also played a critical role in locating suspects and executing arrest warrants, underscoring the importance of community-level law enforcement participation.
U.S. Marshal David C. Davis praised the professionalism and dedication of officers across federal, state and local agencies, noting that removing violent individuals from neighborhoods is essential to maintaining safety.
He described the operation as an example of the Marshals Service fulfilling its mission to protect communities and support high-profile investigations.
FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher J. S. Johnson credited interagency collaboration as key to the operation’s rapid success.
“By pooling resources and expertise, law enforcement can swiftly apprehend those responsible for violent crime,” Johnson said, emphasizing the FBI’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding communities.
Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly said coordinated operations remain crucial for maintaining safety, while DEA St. Louis Field Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Davis added that the sweep sends a clear message to criminals that organized enforcement efforts will not be ignored.
Officials confirmed that Operation Safe Christmas is part of the nationwide initiative “Operation Coast to Coast,” which targets violent crime and narcotics distribution across the country.
Similar coordinated operations are expected to continue, helping to remove dangerous offenders and bolster public safety nationwide.
Residents in the affected counties are likely to experience heightened security during the holiday season, as ongoing efforts by federal, state and local agencies work to apprehend violent criminals and curb illegal narcotics activity.
Officials stressed that sustained collaboration among agencies is essential to maintaining safer neighborhoods and holding repeat offenders accountable.
