Memphis Safe Task Force Significant Arrests for Jan. 5: 50 Criminal Arrests, 8 More Illegal Guns Seized, Missing Child Located

Memphis, TN – Members of the Memphis Safe Task Force on Monday executed 50 criminal arrests, seized eight illicit firearms and recovered an endangered missing child.

Of note: 

Marquice Lester, 31, was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and misdemeanor evading arrest following a controlled delivery of 36 pounds of marijuana to a house in the 670 block of N 6th Street.

Daryl Ray Jr., 23, was arrested for aggravated assault and strangulation at a hotel in the 6100 block of Shelby Oaks Drive.

The MSTF also located a missing 12-year-old autistic child in the 1900 block of Asa Drive and returned the child to the child’s grandmother’s house.  

“I think this team checked all the boxes Monday,” said U.S. Marshals Service Chief Inspector Chad Hunt, Commander of the Memphis Safe Task Force. “Catching drug dealers and violent fugitives, seizing illegal firearms and finding lost kids is exactly what this task force was set up to do.” 

Since the launch of the Memphis Safe Task Force initiative, officers have made 4,830 arrests and seized 788 illegal firearms, as well as substantial quantities of narcotics, and related contraband. These enforcement actions reflect a sustained commitment to reducing violent crime and removing dangerous weapons from Memphis neighborhoods.

Launched in September 2025, the Memphis Safe Task Force is a multi-agency initiative to combat violent crime in Memphis. Composed of federal, state, and local law enforcement, as well as the Tennessee National Guard, the task force is focused on arresting violent criminals, clearing warrants, seizing firearms, and locating missing children. 

This operation reflects the Memphis Safe Task Force’s commitment to coordinated enforcement efforts and its mission to identify, apprehend, and hold accountable those who pose a threat to public safety.

Anyone with information about wanted fugitives is encouraged to submit it via the USMS Tips app.