Who is us marshal

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Last updated: April 17, 2026

Quick Answer: The United States Marshals Service (USMS) was established in 1789, making it the oldest federal law enforcement agency in the U.S. It operates under the Department of Justice and is responsible for fugitive recovery, witness protection, and judicial security.

Key Facts

The US Marshals Service was created on September 24, 1789, by the Judiciary Act signed by President George Washington.
There are approximately 4,000 deputy U.S. marshals and support personnel across the U.S. and its territories.
In 2023, the USMS apprehended over 33,000 fugitives, including 1,500 sex offenders.
The Witness Security Program (WITSEC), managed by USMS, has protected over 19,000 individuals since 1971.
US Marshals provide security for federal judges and courthouses in all 94 federal judicial districts.

Overview

The United States Marshals Service (USMS) is the first and oldest federal law enforcement agency in the United States. Established in 1789, it plays a critical role in maintaining federal judicial authority and enforcing court orders across the country.

Operating under the U.S. Department of Justice, the USMS supports the federal judiciary by ensuring the safety of judges, juries, and court personnel. Its responsibilities extend beyond courtroom security to include fugitive apprehension, asset forfeiture, and managing the Witness Security Program.

Founded on September 24, 1789, the USMS was created by the Judiciary Act signed by President George Washington, making it the first federal law enforcement body.
The agency operates in all 94 federal judicial districts, with each district led by a presidentially appointed U.S. Marshal.
US Marshals are responsible for protecting over 2,000 federal judges and thousands of witnesses annually under the WITSEC program.
In 2023, the USMS led operations resulting in the arrest of over 33,000 fugitives, including high-profile suspects and violent offenders.
The agency manages the Justice Prisoner and Alien Transportation System (JPATS), which transports more than 350,000 prisoners annually.

How It Works

The U.S. Marshals Service functions through a decentralized network of district offices, task forces, and specialized units that collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies.

Term: Deputy U.S. Marshals are federal law enforcement officers with nationwide jurisdiction. They are authorized to carry firearms and make arrests for federal crimes.
Fugitive Task Forces operate in over 70 cities, combining USMS leadership with state and local police to track and capture dangerous fugitives.
The Special Operations Group (SOG) is a tactical unit trained for high-risk operations, including hostage rescues and dignitary protection.
Through the Asset Forfeiture Program, the USMS seizes over $1 billion in criminal assets annually, including cash, vehicles, and real estate.
Marshals coordinate with ICE and CBP to apprehend illegal aliens with criminal records or prior deportation orders.
The WITSEC program has relocated and provided new identities for over 19,000 protected individuals since its inception in 1971.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the U.S. Marshals Service with other major federal law enforcement agencies:

Agency	Founded	Primary Mission	Personnel (approx.)	Notable Program
U.S. Marshals Service	1789	Judicial security, fugitive apprehension	4,000	WITSEC
FBI	1908	Domestic intelligence, counterterrorism	35,000	Most Wanted List
ATF	1972	Firearms, explosives, arson enforcement	5,500	Project Safe Neighborhoods
DEA	1973	Drug enforcement	5,000	Operation Crystal Meth
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)	2003	Transnational crime	10,000	Child Exploitation Investigations

This table highlights how the USMS differs in mission and scale from other agencies. While the FBI focuses on investigations and intelligence, the USMS specializes in enforcement and protection tied directly to the federal court system. Its smaller size belies its broad operational reach and specialized roles in fugitive recovery and witness safety.

Why It Matters

The U.S. Marshals Service is essential to the functioning of the federal justice system, ensuring that court orders are enforced and that judicial processes proceed without intimidation or obstruction.

Without USMS protection, federal judges and witnesses could face retaliation, undermining the fairness of trials.
The agency’s fugitive operations help reduce violent crime by capturing individuals with outstanding warrants for serious offenses.
Through JPATS, the USMS ensures the secure and efficient transport of federal prisoners across state lines.
The WITSEC program has been instrumental in securing convictions in organized crime and terrorism cases by enabling key witnesses to testify safely.
US Marshals often lead multi-agency task forces, enhancing coordination and resource-sharing in complex investigations.
By seizing illicit assets, the agency disrupts criminal enterprises and funds reinvestment into public safety programs.

The U.S. Marshals Service remains a cornerstone of federal law enforcement, combining historical legacy with modern tactics to uphold justice and public safety across the nation.