10 arrested in O.C. drug and firearms raid
Ten people were taken into custody Tuesday in Orange County in a drug and firearms investigation dubbed “Operation Western Front.”
The raid was part of a 16-month probe into gang activity and narcotics violations centered in Stanton, a small city in central Orange County.
Authorities said that as part of the investigation, agents were able to purchase 17 firearms, nearly nine pounds of methamphetamine and assorted contraband.
In the last few weeks, a federal grand jury in Orange County returned eight indictments charging 11 people with felony possession of a firearm, distribution of methamphetamine and possession of counterfeit currency -- with officers arresting two of those defendants Tuesday morning. Eight others were previously taken into custody.
An additional 22 defendants have been named in state complaints -- eight of whom also were nabbed Tuesday, according to officials.
The investigation was led by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. The Long Beach and Montebello police departments, along with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, participated in the probe.
Orange County Sheriff Sandra Hutchens said her department “has a proud tradition of working collaboratively with our federal, state and local partners. This investigation demonstrates the impact and effectiveness of law enforcement partnerships.”
ALSO:
Justin Bieber: Authorities defend response to egging allegations
Kelly Thomas case: D.A. could face political fallout from acquittals
4.4 earthquake near Fontana packed a big punch, resident says
E-mail: anh.do@latimes.com
Twitter: @newsterrier
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
