NCJ Number
85891
Date Published
1982
Length
85 pages
Annotation
The manner in which the Department of Justice exercises its authority over U.S. marshals prevents effective management of Federal law enforcement programs and hinders the judicial process.
Abstract
Marshals must apply their resources to meet competing demands of both the executive and judicial branches. However, neither the Marshals Service nor the Federal courts can be assured that their missions receive the desired priority because the ability of both branches to control marshals is limited. The Marshals Service is responsible for administering the Witness Security and Fugitive Warrants Programs, among other national law enforcement efforts. The existing dual authority relationship hinders these programs' operations. The Witness Security Program is inefficient, program services have been delayed, and witnesses' safety risk has increased. Also, fugitives are often not actively pursued and investigative policies are not followed. General Accounting Office recommendations to improve the Marshals Service are outlined. Footnotes, data tables, and comments by the courts are included.