(AP) - More than 600 fugitives were rounded up inNewark, Jersey City and Trenton on Tuesday as part of a federal sweep targeting sexual predators, violent criminals and gang members, the U.S. Marshall's Office said.

Dubbed Operation FALCON, the sweep combined the efforts of 30 law enforcement agencies. The result: 626 people arrested, including 35 wanted for sex offenses, 244 wanted on drug charges, 36 for weapons violations and scores of others wanted for robbery, assault, vehicle theft and other felonies. Some 118 suspected gang members were also arrested, the Marshall's Office said.

U.S. Attorney Christopher Christie praised the work of agents who conducted the month-long investigation that preceded the sweep.

"The overwhelming success of Operation FALCON will have a direct and lasting effect on the communities, helping to make them safer for residents to live, work and raise their families," Christie said.