Major Drug Bust Operation Cleans Up LA Streets: Operation Coast to Coast
Successful Multi-Agency Drug Enforcement Operation in Los Angeles
Law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles recently collaborated on a large-scale initiative that led to the detention of over 130 individuals and the confiscation of hundreds of kilograms of illegal drugs.
This extensive effort comprised a total of 36 coordinated operations carried out by multiple agencies working in unison.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reported the seizure of a significant volume of narcotics during these operations, sharing the details publicly earlier this week.
Key participants in this joint effort included the FBI, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), and the Sheriff’s Departments from both Los Angeles County and San Bernardino.
During Operation Coast to Coast, numerous illegal establishments such as casitas and illicit gambling venues across the Los Angeles region were targeted and raided.
In December, the FBI increased its resources devoted to this initiative, led by the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF).
This boost was made possible through an executive order issued by then-President Trump, aimed at dismantling criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and human smuggling and trafficking networks operating domestically and internationally.
The Outcomes of Operation Coast to Coast
The operation in the Los Angeles area resulted in 223 arrests and 92 criminal complaints. Authorities executed eight search warrants, including one across the border in Mexico.
The targeted casitas served as hubs for drug sales, illegal firearm trafficking, and prostitution services.
Two notable locations raided were in Montclair and San Bernardino, areas from which most of the detained suspects originated.
The confiscated narcotics included a staggering 102 kilograms of fentanyl, 470 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 1.5 kilograms of cocaine.
Alongside the drugs, law enforcement seized 29 firearms and recovered over $3,000 in cash.
Additional Arrests and Charges
In Long Beach, authorities apprehended individuals believed to be affiliated with gangs involved in drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The gangs identified include Florencia-13, Tortilla Flats, and East Side Longos.
Furthermore, the FBI reported the arrest of a suspect connected to the distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), highlighting the breadth of crimes addressed during the operation.
