AG HOLDER'S STATEMENT ON FATAL SHOOTING OF DEPUTY U.S. MARSHAL JOSIE WELLS

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Statement by Attorney General Holder on Fatal Shooting of Deputy U.S. Marshal Josie Wells

Attorney General Eric Holder released the following statement Wednesday regarding the fatal shooting of Deputy U.S. Marshal Josie Wells:

“Deputy Marshal Josie Wells was a dedicated law enforcement officer, a remarkable patriot and a courageous public servant.  Though he was taken from us far too suddenly and far too soon, he leaves behind an indelible legacy that will live on in the lives he touched; in the work that the U.S. Marshals Service continues to perform; and in a world that is safer because of his devoted service.  His loss is a deeply tragic reminder that the work of our law enforcement officers around the nation is extremely serious, profoundly heroic and deserving of our most emphatic support.  The thoughts and prayers of the law enforcement community will be with the family and loved ones of Deputy Marshal Wells throughout this difficult time.  And as we go forward, the Department of Justice intends to honor his service and his sacrifice by continuing to fight for the values he protected every day, and to defend the American people for whom he gave his life.”


FROM:  U.S. MARSHALS SERVICE
Deputy U.S. Marshal Killed in the Line of Duty

Washington – Deputy U.S. Marshal Josie Wells died from a gunshot wound received in the line of duty in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, March 10. Wells, 27, a native of Mississippi had been with the U.S. Marshals Service since January 2011.

Wells was part of a team executing arrest warrants on a fugitive wanted for double homicide in Baton Rouge. The team engaged in gunfire with the fugitive and Wells was shot. He was immediately transported to Lane Regional Medical Center in Zachary, Louisiana, where he died.

The fugitive, Jamie Croom, was also shot and transported to a local hospital where he later died.

“Our deputies and law enforcement partners face untold dangers every day in the pursuit of justice in cities nationwide,” said Director Stacia A. Hylton. “The fugitive who killed Deputy Wells was extremely dangerous, wanted for double homicide and intentionally evaded justice.”

Hylton added, “When a public servant dies in the line of duty, it is an immeasurable tragedy felt by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Wells’ family, friends and colleagues.”

The shooting investigation is being conducted by FBI and the Baton Rouge Police Department.