Organized crime takedown leads to 39 arrests 

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced the arrest of 39 violent criminals involved in gang violence, including drug dealing and arms trafficking.

Jan 22, 2025 - 15:47
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Organized crime takedown leads to 39 arrests 

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced the arrest of 39 violent criminals involved in gang violence, including drug dealing and arms trafficking.

Operation Los Impuestos has taken down alleged street gang members operating in San Diego County under the direction of the largest prison gang, known as the Mexican Mafia.

“This case is one of the greatest of our time,” San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said.

During the six-month investigation, authorities say the street gangs were directed to impose mafia-style taxes on local businesses in areas of downtown, Barrio Logan, Logan Heights and Southeast San Diego.

“Essentially they are shot callers that coordinate with Mexican cartels and they also then give essentially orders to our street gangs on multiple gangs on what they’re supposed to do, who are they supposed to execute because they didn’t pay the tax, what business should they blow up,” Stephan said.

She said the criminals behind bars are able to direct street gangs by using cell phones. This operation has led to the confiscation of about 50 guns, including AR-15 rifles, 60 pounds of fentanyl and 75 pounds of meth.

Authorities say these street gangs are directed to harass and vandalize businesses.

“They were told if you call law enforcement, what we are doing to you now, will only get worse, we will vandalize your business, we will burn your business, we will beat your employees, we will kill you and your employees,” said SDPD Lt. Chris Tivanian.

Wahl said this case should send a message to the community.

“Let this be a message to those that wish to do harm for organize crime, you can expect more of this, if you exist here in our county,” Wahl said.

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