ESCONDIDO — Eleven people were arrested and charged in San Diego County this week for alleged methamphetamine distribution following a 16-month investigation into local gangs, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced this week.
At the conclusion of the investigation by the FBI San Diego Violent Crime Task Force — Gang Group and Homeland Security Investigations, four defendants were arrested between Sunday and Tuesday, and another seven were taken into custody on Wednesday when more than 200 law enforcement officials descended on Escondido, National City, Ramona and San Diego.
Prosecutors said the operation targeted gang-affiliated drug dealers in Mira Mesa and other locations, and relied on wiretaps, undercover agents and confidential sources.
“We allege that these defendants turned neighborhoods into a marketplace for drugs and crime,” said San Diego U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon in a statement. “By dismantling this network, we’re helping give the community back its streets — and its peace of mind.”
