Federal and local authorities in Columbus, Ohio, arrested over 50 suspected fugitive felons living in taxpayer-funded housing during a coordinated six-day law enforcement operation. The initiative, dubbed “Operation Clean House,” involved U.S. Marshals, agents from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.

The suspects carried felony warrants for crimes including rape, drug trafficking, endangering children, strangulation, and failure to register as a sex offender. U.S. Marshal Michael Black of the Southern District of Ohio said HUD contacted his office to coordinate the operation. “Every time we do this, we're making our community safer, one arrest at a time,” Black said.

Officials reported recovering weapons and drugs during the operation, including an AK-47 from one residence. Arrests included individuals wanted for violent crimes, probation violations, aggravated burglary, assault, and identity fraud. Thirty HUD agents participated, and authorities confirmed all arrests were carried out without critical incidents.

HUD Secretary Scott Turner emphasized the administration’s commitment to safe public housing. “Criminals are on notice, we will not tolerate crime in HUD-funded housing,” Turner said on social media. “The Trump Administration will ensure public housing is safe housing and taxpayer funds do not support criminal activity.”

The operation reflects ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to enforce accountability in federal housing programs, protect taxpayers, and prioritize public safety in communities benefiting from government-assisted housing. By removing individuals with outstanding felony warrants, officials say the operation frees up housing opportunities for law-abiding citizens while reducing criminal activity in federally funded properties.