What Are the Duties of a U.S. Marshal?
The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) is the oldest federal law enforcement agency in the country. In continuous operation since 1789, marshals are responsible for a variety of protective services.
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Judicial Security
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The central purpose of the U.S. Marshals Service is to protect judges, jurors and attorneys in courtrooms of all jurisdictions. They operate the witness protection program and transport federal prisoners.
Fugitives
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U.S. marshals conduct federal investigations of fugitives. According to the U.S. Marshals Service website, 36,400 felons were apprehended in fiscal year 2009. Marshals house tens of thousands of detainees in prisons across the nation.
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Air Transport
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Beginning in 1995, U.S. marshals began transporting prisoners and illegal immigrants on planes. Their role in the air has increased since the 911 attacks in 2001.
Other Duties
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The U.S. Marshals Service is involved in Homeland Security issues and responds to national emergencies.
Compensation
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For their duties, U.S. marshals earned between $36,658 and $46,969 per year as of 2009, according to the U.S. Marshals Service website.
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