Law enforcement agencies across Stanislaus County engaged in a massive gang sweep on Wednesday, resulting in more than 20 arrests and the seizure of illegal guns and drugs.
At roughly 10 a.m., more than 100 officers set out to contact approximately 115 known gang-related individuals. Federal, state, and local agencies were all involved – including the Turlock Police Department.
The wide-sweeping operation was driven by a continued increase in gang-related violence, the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department said. Drive-by shootings between Norteno and Sureno criminal street gangs have surged in recent weeks, with two Sureno gang members shot dead in the last month.
By the time the operation was completed, 89 locations were searched, according to the Modesto Police Department. Officers seized 11 guns, including 2 assault rifles, and 2 ounces of methamphetamine. Two marijuana grow operations were busted. And a total of 29 individuals were arrested.
Wednesday's operation is just the first of several anti-gang actions planned for this summer.
Anyone with information about gang activities is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636, or text “TIP704” to 274637.
This article has been updated to reflect final results of the countywide gang sweep.
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Countywide Gang Sweep Nets 11 Arrests; Still Underway
