Akron's streets are a tad safer today following the arrest of a man wanted for a string of violent crimes, including a drive-by shooting that seriously injured a woman. The U.S. Marshals led Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) nabbed Matt Walker, 32, on charges of felonious assault, domestic violence, strangulation, and parole violations. Walker's previous run-ins with the law involved weapons misconduct, and his recent arrest by federal authorities follows this troubling pattern.
The October 22nd shooting left a female victim with serious injuries after she was hit by gunfire while sitting on her porch. The arrest, which occurred at a home on Becker Ln. in Akron, came without a fuss and led to the recovery of a 9mm untraceable handgun. According to a press release by the U.S. Marshals Service, this action took a "dangerous and violent fugitive, with no regard for the Akron community and its citizens" off the streets.
U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott did not mince words when he described the threat Walker posed to the community. "A fugitive who is under supervision for weapons violations, wanted for new weapons-related offenses, and found with a firearm at the time of his arrest is exactly who needs to be taken off the streets to protect our communities," Elliott told the U.S. Marshals Service press release.
The NOVFTF's efforts are bolstered by a coalition of federal, state, and local agencies, ensuring that Akron's peace is maintained. Among those involved include the Akron Police Department, Bath Township Police Department, and The United States Secret Service. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and are reminded of the available reward money for information leading to the capture of wanted fugitives. Tips can be phoned in at 1-866-4WANTED or submitted through the web, with the possibility of anonymity for the tipster.
