Fugitive sweep nets hundreds

Dozens of government agencies spread across the state last month in search of dangerous fugitives during a sting that netted a record-breaking number of arrests in the five-year history of the effort led by Federal and Local Cops Organized Locally, or FALCON.

The nationwide operation led by the U.S. Marshal's office resulted in 409 arrests in Nevada.

"This is a significant number to say the least," said Gregory Brower, U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada. "It's vitally important for our collective efforts to make our community safe."

Authorities arrested 32 sex offenders, 89 suspects with drug-related warrants, 116 burglary suspects, 13 individuals wanted for robbery, 24 for assault, 47 gang members and one homicide suspect.

One of the more high-profile targets of the month-long sweep was 63-year-old Richard Dean Stephen, a school bus driver who was wanted for lewdness with a minor and sexual assault. Stephen's arrest came after a 5-year-old reported he assaulted her in her home, according to authorities.

Dwayne Romero, a 25-year-old wanted in connection with the slaying of a man beaten to death during a gang initiation, was also captured during the operation. Romero was FALCON's most-wanted fugitive. He was arrested in New Mexico and awaits extradition to Nevada.

"My office looks forward to prosecuting as many of these individuals as we possibly can," Brower said.

The U.S. Marshal's office spends four to six weeks preparing for the sweep by collecting information on fugitives and pulling warrants. In addition to the arrests, the task force cleared 620 warrants.

U.S. Marshal Gary Orton called the effort the "most successful fugitive initiative ever."

Last year's FALCON sweep resulted in 211 arrests; in 2007, 201 fugitives were arrested.

Along with the major law enforcement agencies in the state, FALCON also enlists the help of such organizations as the state Gaming Control Board and the Taxicab Authority.

The Taxicab Authority serves as a helpful tool because drivers develop sources and collect information throughout the Las Vegas Valley, said Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal Roxanna Irwin.

Authorities said some cabdrivers have warrants out themselves; others provide helpful information based on conversations overheard in their cabs.

Orton said none of the arrests ended violently.

"There is an element of surprise; they don't know we're coming," Orton said.

Orton said the next sweep is scheduled around the end of October and will target sex offenders.

Contact reporter Adrienne Packer at apacker@reviewjournal.com or 702-384-8710.