House Bill No. [insert number] proposes the establishment of a Fugitive Apprehension Unit within the office of the attorney general in Louisiana. This unit will be part of the investigative division of the Department of Justice and will consist of P.O.S.T.-certified peace officers, intelligence analysts, and support personnel. The Fugitive Apprehension Unit will be tasked with coordinating efforts with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to apprehend fugitives, assist in pursuing individuals who violate court-ordered electronic monitoring, execute arrest warrants, and prioritize the apprehension of fugitives wanted for violent felony offenses. Additionally, the unit will have the authority to establish fugitive task forces and pursue individuals who harbor or conceal fugitives.
The bill also allows the attorney general to utilize funds from the Department of Justice Legal Support Fund to support the operations of the Fugitive Apprehension Unit. This includes funding for expert witnesses, consultants, technology, and specialized training necessary for the unit's activities. The attorney general will be responsible for appointing and commissioning special agents who will have the powers conferred upon peace officers in the state. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the state's ability to apprehend fugitives and improve public safety through coordinated law enforcement efforts.