Alina Habba, President Trump’s former attorney, now leads Operation Apex Hammer in New Jersey, personally joining dawn raids to capture violent gang members including MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, proving her commitment to dismantling organized crime networks despite critics questioning her qualifications.
Key Takeaways
- Operation Apex Hammer is a month-long campaign targeting violent criminals and gang members across New Jersey, including MS-13, Rolling 60’s Crips, and Tren de Aragua.
- Interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba is taking an active role in the operation, personally participating in raids and tactical operations.
- The operation has already resulted in dozens of arrests, focusing on apprehending individuals with active felony warrants for violent crimes.
- Despite criticism from political opponents, Habba emphasizes that her focus is on prosecution and reducing violent crime, not politics.
- U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos warns criminals: “You can run, but you cannot hide,” underscoring the operation’s determination to bring offenders to justice.
Habba Takes Direct Action Against Violent Crime
Interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba is proving her commitment to public safety by personally joining law enforcement operations targeting violent offenders. In an early morning raid in Newark, federal agents pursued a suspected member of Tren de Aragua, a notoriously violent South American gang involved in armed robberies on New York City subways. While the primary target wasn’t found, three illegal migrants were detained during the operation. This raid represents just one component of Operation Apex Hammer, a comprehensive statewide initiative designed to reduce violent crime through coordinated efforts between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
“Violent crime is number one. It is very clear from this administration. That is all we’re focused on. So, the politics are done now, and it’s honestly been amazing being here,” said Alina Habba, Interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey
Despite facing criticism from political opponents who question her qualifications, Habba has demonstrated her resolve by joining officers on the front lines. Her hands-on approach sends a clear message that the federal prosecutor’s office is serious about targeting dangerous criminals and protecting New Jersey communities. President Trump appointed Habba to this interim role, which she can hold for 120 days pending Senate confirmation, and she has wasted no time in making her mark as the state’s Chief Law Enforcement Officer.
Operation Targets Notorious Gang Members
Operation Apex Hammer specifically targets members of violent gangs that have been terrorizing communities throughout New Jersey. The initiative focuses on apprehending individuals affiliated with MS-13, Tren de Aragua, Rolling 60’s Crips, and other dangerous organizations who have active felony warrants. These criminal enterprises have been responsible for numerous violent crimes including murders, shootings, armed robberies, and drug trafficking. By dismantling these organizations and removing their most violent members from the streets, law enforcement aims to create lasting security improvements for New Jersey residents.
“The United States Marshals Service on a regular basis goes after the most violent fugitive offenders. People that are wanted for murder. People who are wanted for shootings,” said Juan Mattos, U.S. Marshal for the District of New Jersey
The operation doesn’t exclusively target foreign nationals or gang members. American citizens with outstanding warrants for violent crimes are also being apprehended. In one instance, authorities arrested a New Jersey woman wanted in connection with a shooting. In another case, officers captured a suspect wanted for aggravated assault who nearly escaped using a fire escape. These arrests demonstrate the operation’s comprehensive approach to reducing violent crime regardless of the perpetrator’s background or affiliations.
No Escape for Violent Criminals
U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos has delivered a stern warning to fugitives attempting to evade justice in New Jersey. Working in coordination with multiple law enforcement agencies, the Marshals Service is leveraging its extensive resources and expertise to track down and apprehend violent offenders. The operation will continue throughout June, with dozens of suspected criminals already in custody. This sustained effort reflects the Trump administration’s commitment to restoring law and order in communities plagued by violent crime and gang activity.
“You can run, but you cannot hide. I think that the message is loud and clear. Our Marshals and the partner agencies that work alongside of us will always be determined to bring people back to justice. No matter the passage of time, no matter how long it takes.” – Juan Mattos, U.S. Marshal for the District of New Jersey.
When asked about her safety during these potentially dangerous operations, Habba expressed confidence in her team and her faith. She also shared advice she received from President Trump, who encouraged her to focus on prosecution rather than politics. This guidance appears to be shaping her approach as she transitions from her previous role as Trump’s attorney to serving as New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor. While critics may question her appointment, Habba’s active participation in these operations demonstrates her commitment to fulfilling her responsibilities as Interim U.S. Attorney.
