U.S. Marshals cast a decisive net over one Dante Freeman, the 20-year-old suspect in a Warrensville Heights homicide yesterday, confirming an arrest that puts an end to months of searching. Freeman was nabbed by the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF), wanted for his alleged role in the death of 19-year-old Lequan Head on January 3. Head's body was discovered riddled with bullets in a car parked near South Pointe Hospital, a grim tableau that sparked a manhunt culminating in this afternoon's arrest.
The charges laid upon Freeman are severe: murder, attempted murder, felonious assault, and the discharging of a firearm. His name was previously circulated in May as the Fugitive of the Week, and the NOVFTF urgently broadcasted it in hopes of justice. On a tip, the task force discovered Freeman holed up in a Brunswick, Ohio, residence on the 100 block of Redbridge Ln, leading to yesterday's apprehension.
U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott lauded the capture with a brief statement, “Great work by members of our team locating this violent fugitive and safely bringing him into custody. Hopefully this will bring some justice to the victim’s family.” as reported by U.S. Marshals Service. The successful arrest demonstrates the dogged determination of the task force in pursuing suspects on the lam.
The collaborative might of the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is a combined force of federal, state, and local agencies, including the Cleveland Police Department, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, and other regional law enforcement units. These joint efforts have again proven effective in capturing those accused of violent crimes and removing them from the community. For those with further tips, the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force can be contacted at 1-866-4WANTED or with a web tip submission, with the possibility of reward money for relevant information and confidentiality for those who desire it.
