Deputies arrest 95, collect $400,000 in back child support in holiday operation

Allegheny County sheriff’s deputies arrested 95 fugitives and collected almost $400,000 in child support during a three-week sweep.

The operation targeted the southern neighborhoods of Pittsburgh hit hardest by opioid deaths. These include places such as Allentown, Beechview, Brookline, Carrick, Knoxville and Mt. Oliver.

“It’s a good thing,” said Kathy Connolly, who lives in Mt. Oliver. “I’m glad somebody is finally doing something about it.”

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Among those arrested, the majority were wanted on criminal bench warrants and probation violations stemming from drug-related offenses.

The sheriff said the big reason behind this crackdown is to help get money to kids who count on child support, especially when missed payments could impact their Christmas.

“That's the only time they round people up because they know Christmas, people will want to get people out of jail, so that's what they do,” said Joyce Edwards, of Mt. Oliver.

During the sweep, sheriff’s deputies also made new arrests for several violations, including endangering the welfare of children and person not to possess a firearm.

Cox Media Group