Local Assets Key in U.S. Marshals Arrest of Fugitive in Hollis

Concord, NH – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) District of New Hampshire and the New Hampshire Joint Fugitive Task Force are pleased to announce the apprehension of a fugitive who had been on the run since January.  Assistance from police departments in Hollis, New Hampshire, and Pepperell, Massachusetts, helped reduce risk to officers, the public and the suspect during the joint operation, which concluded earlier today.

Joseph Henriksen, 41, failed to appear for a bail hearing at the Merrimack County Superior Court on Jan. 23 in connection with a May 14, 2025, indictment under New Hampshire’s armed career criminal statute.  Prosecutors allege Henriksen possessed a firearm after being convicted of three felony drug offenses. The task force adopted the warrant and began investigating his whereabouts in February.  

The investigation led authorities to a residence on Flagg Road in Hollis. Given the property’s remote location, Henriksen’s history of fleeing law enforcement, and information indicating he may have had access to weapons and drugs, Hollis police provided aerial surveillance using an unmanned aircraft system. The aerial support allowed the arrest team - which included Pepperell police K-9, Taro - to approach while Henriksen was at a safe distance from potential threats.

Henriksen attempted to flee as officers moved in but was cornered near a wooded area. He resisted arrest before ultimately complying. He later told officers the presence of the K-9 contributed to his decision to surrender.

“The resources and local knowledge our partner agencies bring are critical to mission success,” said acting U.S. Marshal Katherine Burns. “Hollis and Pepperell were key partners in this operation, and we appreciate their expertise and professionalism.”

Henriksen was transported to the Merrimack County Department of Corrections, where he is being held without bail pending a court appearance on his original charges Monday.

The USMS New Hampshire Joint Fugitive Task Force was formed in the fall of 2002 and is headquartered in Concord. The task force coordinates federal, state, county, and local resources to develop leads, gather intelligence, track and apprehend targeted fugitives. The Task Force receives vital support from Strafford, Merrimack and Rockingham Counties, as well as the cities of Manchester and Nashua.