U.S. Marshals track down fugitives with links to domestic violence



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- In 2011, Wisconsin law enforcement officials tallied more than 28,000 cases of domestic abuse. The raw number can seem overwhelming, but a group of officers is looking to prevent that kind of violence, stop potential repeat offenders and even prevent deaths. Earlier in February, U.S. Marshals gave FOX6 News an exclusive look at a fugitive roundup operation.

Law enforcement officials gathered information on people who violated their probation or parole who had a history of domestic violence -- or their violation had to do with an act of domestic unrest.

Then, Marshals went on a series of warrant runs throughout southeastern Wisconsin -- and invited FOX6 News along.

This operation follows a fatal act of domestic violence.

Back in October, 45-year-old Radcliffe Haughton opened fire inside a Brookfield salon and spa, killing three people, including his ex-wife. The killings were the result of domestic unrest erupting into fatal violence.

"Domestic violence is going to be taken seriously and the Marshals service is going to arrest any fugitives that have been involved in a domestic violence situation," one law enforcement official said.

This fugitive roundup resulted in law enforcement officials looking for 28-year-old Antonio Pugh. He was angered about food preparation and this anger led to hospitalization.

"Him and his girlfriend got in an argument because she fried his pizza rolls instead of putting them in the microwave allegedly," one law enforcement official said.

Law enforcement officials say Pugh violated his parole, leading to Marshals surrounding a north side home. Officials eventually located Pugh in a closet.

Law enforcement officials say victims aren't always girlfriends or wives.

Marshals captured 41-year-old Brian Bisswurm. Back in 2008, U.S. Marshals say he was accused of punching and trying to wrap a belt around the neck of his father, who was 72 at the time.

Investigators say the violence was triggered because Bisswurm's father refused to give him $140 dollars.

Bisswurm is accused of violating his parole.

"If they're willing to hurt someone that they love, they probably wouldn't think twice about hurting a police officer," one law enforcement official said.

This sweep took place February 4th through the 15th and took Marshals to more than 30 homes. Law enforcement officials made 23 arrests.