Cedric E. Cundiff, a 67-year-old man from Massachusetts, appeared in federal court in Syracuse, New York, on charges of assaulting a federal officer with a knife. According to the criminal complaint, on January 29, 2026, members of the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force went to a residence in Syracuse to arrest Cundiff, who was wanted in Suffolk County, Massachusetts for robbery and assault with a dangerous weapon.
Authorities allege that when officers located Cundiff inside the residence and attempted to apprehend him, he fled to a bedroom. When an officer tried to open the door, Cundiff reportedly cut the investigator’s hand with a knife, resulting in two lacerations and a fracture.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated: “This case illustrates the danger that our Marshals and other agents face on a daily basis as they work to keep us safe. This Department of Justice will continue vigorously prosecuting anyone who attacks our brave law enforcement officers – if you cross that line, you will pay.”
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “Each and every day, our law enforcement partners put themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities safe. As alleged, the defendant violently attacked an officer who was doing just that. Let me be loud and clear: Harassment, obstruction, and violence of any kind against members of federal law enforcement will not be tolerated. Anyone who does not heed this warning will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Craig Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albany Division added: “This was a dangerous and volatile arrest that underscores the real risks our law enforcement partners face every day. The defendant, already a wanted individual out of Massachusetts, is now facing significant federal prison time for these serious allegations. The FBI will not tolerate any act of violence against our law enforcement partners who work around the clock to keep our communities safe.”
Acting U.S. Marshal Christopher Amoia commented: “Violence against law enforcement officers will not be tolerated. Assaults on officers who are carrying out their lawful duties pose a serious threat to public safety and the rule of law. The United States Marshals Service, in partnership with federal and local law enforcement agencies, remains committed to holding individuals accountable for such acts.”
Cundiff was detained following his initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Mitchell J. Katz.
The charges remain accusations at this stage; Cundiff is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
If convicted on this charge alone—assaulting a federal officer with a dangerous weapon—Cundiff faces up to 20 years in prison along with possible fines up to $250,000 and supervised release for up to three years.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and New York State Police; Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. McCrobie is prosecuting.
