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Alaska Homicide Suspect Ariel Patrick Apprehended in Guatemala

Diplomatic Security personnel from the U.S. Embassy's Regional Security Office worked closely with the U.S. Marshals Service, Guatemalan National Police, and Interpol to locate alleged murder suspect 24-year-old Ariel Beau Patrick, who was taken into custody November 23, 2009 in Guatemala.

The apprehension of Mr. Patrick is an example of how our strong relationships with our fellow law enforcement agencies in the United States and here in Guatemala can deliver successful results in our pursuit of fugitives.

The apprehension of Mr. Patrick also delivers a clear message that the U.S. Department of State is firmly committed to working with our U.S. and international law enforcement partners around the world to locate those who commit crimes and then attempt to escape justice by hiding in other countries.

In coordination with U.S. Marshals, Diplomatic Security personnel from the U.S. Embassy confirmed Mr. Patrick's presence in Guatemala, helped locate the suspect, and coordinated with our U.S. and international partners to ensure his capture.

U.S. Embassy officials especially want to thank the Guatemalan National Police and Interpol for their rapid and professional assistance which led to the successful culmination of this fugitive apprehension operation. Thanks to our Guatemalan counterparts, a suspected murderer is off the streets.

Because this is an ongoing case there will be no further comments from the U.S. Department of State at this time.

Because the U.S. State Department's Diplomatic Security Service is the most widely represented law enforcement organization in the world, DSS's capability to track and capture fugitives who have fled U.S. jurisdiction to avoid prosecution is unmatched. During 2008, DSS DS participated in the investigation and return of 119 fugitives - 109 international and 10 domestic returns.

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security is the U.S. Department of State's law enforcement and security arm. The special agents, engineers, and security professionals of the Bureau are responsible for the security of 285 U.S. diplomatic missions around the world. In the United States, Diplomatic Security personnel protect the U.S. Secretary of State and high-ranking foreign dignitaries and officials visiting the United States, investigate passport and visa fraud, and conduct personnel security investigations. More information about the U.S. Department of State and the Bureau of Diplomatic Security may be obtained at www.state.gov/m/ds.

Contact:
David Bates
571-345-2518
BatesDE@state.gov

Source: U.S. Department of State