California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced the results of a collaborative multiagency operation targeting criminal street gangs in the Central Valley. This effort involved federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies serving 54 warrants across the region. The operation resulted in 89 felony arrests and the prevention of nine violent crimes. Authorities seized firearms, ammunition, and illicit drugs including methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine.
Attorney General Bonta stated, “Today, we are sending a strong message that organized criminal enterprises cannot stand up to the power of good law enforcement work.” He praised the collaboration with federal, state, and local partners for enhancing community safety by removing dangerous drugs and weapons from streets.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith emphasized the commitment to addressing crime’s root causes and holding gang members accountable. She noted that “criminal street gangs inflict real harm on our communities by trafficking deadly drugs and firearms.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel highlighted that “yesterday’s operation was the culmination of months of collaborative work to disrupt gang-driven violence.” The charges address drug trafficking activities affecting areas like Huron and Coalinga.
Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni remarked on the positive impact of this collective law enforcement effort on community safety.
The investigation began in February 2024 focusing on a gang operating in Fresno County. It revealed an extensive conspiracy involving drug and firearms trafficking orchestrated by gang members, some of whom were inmates. Thirty-eight suspects face charges under a federal criminal complaint.
Assistance came from various agencies including Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshals Service, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation among others.
The CA DOJ’s Special Operations Unit collaborated with local law enforcement to combat violent criminals statewide using advanced investigative techniques.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
