Yesterday, Milford Police, in a joint operation with U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), apprehended Fernando Vieira Martins, an international fugitive wanted for a vicious homicide in Brazil. The collar by the local police was announced via a Facebook post from the Milford Police Department. Martins is accused of a brutal stabbing incident that left the victim dead after sustaining more than 30 stab wounds. He had been on the lam since 2023, evading law enforcement and an international arrest warrant issued in his name by the Brazilian authorities.
Martins found his way to Milford where he remained hidden until the recent operation that led to his arrest. "Thanks to the collaborative work between our department and HSI, another dangerous individual has been apprehended and will now face justice," Chief Robert Tusino of the Milford Police Department stated. His capture represents the second case within a span of 45 days where a person with a known violent past has taken refuge within the Milford community.
The case took on significant weight, as Martins is currently detained on immigration-related charges, pending the extradition procedures. The swift and decisive action of the Milford Police was commended by Chief Tusino. "I’d like to commend the Milford Police Department Detective Bureau and Patrol Division for their steadfast policing in apprehending another dangerous fugitive,” he expressed on Facebook. The success of this operation underscores the tenacity of local law enforcement and the efficiency of inter-agency cooperation.
Contact information for further inquiries was provided as [email protected]. As the case develops, and Martins awaits extradition, the police department was keen to remind the public that all suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, a doctrine that is fundamental to the American justice system.
