The Region - News from June 15, 1986

Los Angeles Police Department narcotics officials estimated that more than 800 suspected narcotic users and sellers would be arrested in the course of a citywide sweep that began Thursday and ends this weekend. Lt. William Costleigh of the Central Division Narcotics Bureau said a similar sweep last year netted 780 suspects. He said the estimated 800 arrests would be the highest since police began conducting weekend sweeps more than a year ago. “We’re going after the small-time dealer,” Costleigh said. “We’re not getting major quantities. We’re after the folks who are a pain in the neck of the communities.” Officers from the LAPD’s Central, South, Van Nuys and Hollywood divisions were using unmarked police cars and undercover officers in the operation, Costleigh said.