The U.S. Marshals have arrested a Sarpy County man they say has been identifying himself as a U.S. Marshal at various locations in the Omaha metro over the last few weeks.
The U.S. Marshals Metro Fugitive Task Force says 55 year old Jeffrey Thomas Ostdiek was arrested at a Northwest Omaha hotel around 6:30 Wednesday morning.
Investigators say Ostdiek reportedly identified himself as a U.S. Marshal several times in the last month. They allege he identified himself as a Marshal in these instances:
- To the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office
- At a local spa, where he requested information on an employee
- At another local business, where he appeared in person and harassed employees over the course of several days, claiming there was a federal case against the company
- At a private residence, in which he knocked on the door and turned the door handle, attempting to gain entry. SCSO deputies advised the homeowner to get a protection order.
Investigators say on September 18th, Omaha Police Department also issued a “Ban and Bar” trespass notice to Ostdiek, which he signed as “The United States Marshal Jeffrey Thomas Ostdiek.”
Ostdiek was booked into the Douglas County Jail and is awaiting federal court proceedings. The U.S. Marshals say they encourage the public to come forward if they have any information or previous contacts with Mr. Ostdiek where he made claims to be law enforcement. The U.S. Marshals will continue to investigate this case with the Sarpy County Sheriff’s office and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska.
“The Marshals Service has a storied history with dedicated employees serving our community every day. Having a person identify themselves as a U.S. Marshal and causing harm to those we serve will not be tolerated. We will pursue and attempt to prosecute to the fullest extent anyone who attempts to tarnish that reputation.” - U.S. Marshal for the District of Nebraska Scott Kracl.