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38th Street Gang Bust: 57 Arrested, Drugs & Weapons Seized
Photo by CarbonNYC via Flickr
The LAPD, DEA, and ATF joined forces early this morning to conduct dozens of arrests of members of the 38th Street Gang gang, as part of a massive indictment against the criminal organization on federal charges, according to the Department of Justice.800 officers arrested a total of 57 people, of which 37 are defendants named in the indictment. The indictment "alleges a host of violent crimes, large-scale drug trafficking and extortion of both drug dealers and legitimate businesses." The other 20 arrests were for state weapons and narcotics charges; 14 people named in the indictment were already in custody, while seven remain fugitives.
Also netted in today's raid was "approximately seven kilograms of cocaine, one pound of methamphetamine, 23 firearms and approximately $250,000 in cash."
The 38th Street Gang is considered one of the region's oldest.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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