U.S. Marshals Task Force and Sandusky Police Arrest Homicide Suspect Wanted in Alabama

NOVFTF LogoToledo, OH The U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) and the Sandusky Police Department arrested Jackie McElroy (age 35) for homicide. McElroy was wanted on the homicide by the Jefferson County Sheriffs Department in Alabama. In June of 2009, McElroy allegedly shot and killed James Porter in Jefferson County, Alabama. Shortly after the homicide it is believed that McElroy fled Alabama for Ohio. The U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force in Birmingham, Alabama, developed information that McElroy was from the Sandusky area and had possibly fled there. On December 10, 2009, the U.S. Marshals NOVFTF Toledo Division and the Sandusky Police Department developed information that McElroy was hiding at a residence in the 1200 block of Monroe Street in Sandusky. The NOVFTF and Sandusky Police established surveillance of the residence. During the surveillance, NOVFTF and Sandusky Officers positively identified McElroy as he exited the home to the exterior of the house briefly and then re-entered the home. The decision was made to approach the residence and execute the arrest warrant. McElroy was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Erie County Jail to await extradition to Alabama. The Perkins Township Police Department also assisted the NOVFTF and Sandusky Police with the investigation. McElroy was also wanted by the Sandusky Police, Erie County Sheriffs Department, and the Norwalk Police for traffic violations. Detective Sergeant John Orzech of the Sandusky Police Department stated, This is a great example of law enforcement working together, which directly led to the arrest of a very dangerous wanted felon. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of a known fugitive is encouraged to contact the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at: 1-866-4-WANTED. Callers may remain anonymous.