NASHVILLE – Thomas J. Jaworski, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee, has announced a new initiative called “Operation Bond Watch.” This program is designed to prosecute individuals unlawfully possessing firearms while out on bond for serious violent crimes such as murder and attempted murder. The initiative’s goal is to deter these individuals from carrying firearms, which could pose a risk to the community.
Operation Bond Watch specifically targets individuals released on bond for charges including First Degree Murder, Felony Murder, Second Degree Murder, Attempted First Degree Murder, and Attempted Second Degree Murder. If such individuals are found unlawfully possessing firearms, federal prosecutors will pursue federal charges swiftly when the evidence supports it.
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Acting U.S. Attorney Jaworski emphasized the program’s aim to protect the community from gun violence and prevent those awaiting trial for violent crimes from illegally possessing firearms. Metro Police Chief John Drake supports the initiative, highlighting its role in breaking cycles of violent gun crime by repeat offenders. The program is a collaborative effort involving strong partnerships with the ATF and FBI.
Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson of the ATF Nashville Field Division reiterated the importance of protecting the public as a core mission. Similarly, Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office confirmed the FBI’s commitment to working with partners on this initiative.
An example of the program’s impact is the 2024 arrest of a Nashville man, out on bond for a 2021 murder, who was suspected of committing another murder. This incident underscores the need for measures like Operation Bond Watch to prevent potential violence.
In a previous case, Mark Ellis, from Clarksville, was on bond for First Degree Murder when arrested with a firearm and drugs. He was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison, showcasing the program’s potential effectiveness in deterring crime.
Operation Bond Watch is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering community trust, supporting violence prevention efforts, and setting strategic enforcement priorities. The initiative seeks to enhance community safety and deter illegal firearm possession by individuals on bond for serious crimes.
For more information, visit the [U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee](https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdtn).
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