The United States Marshal Service is the oldest federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Justice that acts as an enforcement arm of the federal courts. The Marshal Service protects the federal courts and ensures the judicial system’s effective operation. It also, provides transport for federal prisoners, protect federal witnesses whose life is in danger and manage the criminal enterprise assets. The U. S. Marshals’ motto is “Justice, Integrity, and Service,” and its famous five-sided star is the oldest emblem of federal law enforcement in the United States.
Marshals’ legendary heroics were portrayed throughout history and movies. They are known for their dedication and professionalism in their daily task. Ninety-five U. S. marshals, appointed by the President or the U. S. Attorney General, direct the activities of 94 district offices and personnel stationed in more than 350 locations throughout the 50 states, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Each district, and the District of Columbia Superior Court, is headed by a U. S. marshal. The Marshals Service’s headquarters are located in Arlington, VA (The U. S. Marshals n. d. ). We will go back in time to know its history, meet the famous personalities and appreciate their role in American history. The Marshal’s Service: Its History The Organic Acts In 1789, US Congress passed the Judiciary Act, which was signed by President George Washington into law that created a federal judicial system.
The act created and commissioned the US Federal Marshals by virtue of § 27, which provides for its appointment in every district for a four-year term and can be removed at the pleasure of the President (The Judiciary Act of 1789). Title 28, Part II, Chapter 37 § 561 of the United States Codes provides for the United States Marshals Service’s creation, the manner of its appointment and function. As a bureau, the Marshals Service is under the authority and direction of the Attorney General of the Department of Justice.
The President with the advice and consent of the US Senate appoints the U. S. Marshals of each judicial district (U. S. Code). § 566 of Title 28 US Code elucidate the primary role and mission of the U. S. Marshals that includes: “security and to obey, execute, and enforce all orders of the United States District Courts, the United States Courts of Appeals and the Court of International Trade; required to attend court’s session; execute all lawful writs, processes, and orders issued under the authority of the United States; and shall command all necessary assistance to execute its duties.
Also, it provides personal protection to Federal jurist, court officers, witnesses, and other threatened persons in the interests of justice where criminal intimidation impedes n the functioning of the judicial process or any other official proceeding; and investigate such fugitive matters, both within and outside the United States, as directed by the Attorney General (U. S. Code).