The NOPD’s Violent Offender Warrant Squad (VOWS) unit arrested four individuals within the past 24 hours including suspects wanted in connection with rape, human trafficking, armed robbery and aggravated assault.

Matthew Bell (DOB: 6/29/85) for second degree rape. The incident occurred on June 21, 2017 and the arrest took place in the 8900 block of Forshey in the Second District.

VOWS and the U.S. Marshals arrested Aaron Roach (DOB: 10/2/1996) for human trafficking of children for sexual purposes. The incident occurred in the 4000 block of Tulane Avenue in the First District on May 29, 2017. He was arrested in the 2700 block Mendez Street in the Third District.

Melvin Stalks (DOB: 10/18/95) for two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, simple battery, possession of crack cocaine (9.74 grams) and marijuana ( 1.37 grams), and  being a felon in possession of firearm (Glock 23, 40 caliber). The incidents occurred at Jackson Avenue and Willow Street on June 17, 2017, and in the 2100 block of Willow Street in the Sixth District on June 15, 2017. He was apprehended in the 1600 block of Poland Avenue in the Fifth District.

Brandon Jackson (DOB: 7/29/1989) for armed robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated assault with a firearm, illegal discharge of a firearm, and simple criminal damage to property. The incident occurred in the 7800 block of Sand Street in the Seventh District on April 15, 2017. He was arrested at 2700 Tulane Avenue in the First District.

If you have information about any of these incidents call the NOPD non-emergency number at 504-821-2222.

About VOWS

The Violent Offender Warrant Squad (VOWS) is responsible for tracking down individuals who are wanted for serious crimes and apprehending suspects with outstanding warrants. This unit operates within the NOPD’s Special Operations Division and works in conjunction with the United States Marshals Office Fugitive Task Force. In 2016 the unit was responsible for more than 500 arrests.