Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a significant breakthrough in the battle against organized crime in Stockton. An extensive operation targeting a 'violent organized criminal group' culminated in the arrest of over 30 individuals, bringing relief to the city.
Initiated on August 2, the investigation saw a climax during a multi-agency operation on September 21. This collaborative effort led to the serving of 19 search warrants and 11 arrest warrants across San Joaquin and Yuba counties.
A key outcome of the operation was the arrest of an individual implicated in the attempted murder of a Stockton police sergeant after a shooting incident on August 2. Bonta's office also revealed that the investigation managed to thwart two impending violent crimes, including a planned shooting.
The operation's tangible outcomes include the arrest of a total of 34 individuals and the confiscation of 20 firearms, which encompassed four assault weapons and two untraceable ghost guns.
San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas lauded the effort, stating, "This was a collaborative effort done in conjunction with the California Department of Justice Special Operations Unit." He further praised the unit for their professionalism and dedication during the operation.
The arrested individuals face an array of charges, encompassing accessory to a felony, firearms possession, involvement in a criminal street gang, conspiracy to commit robbery, possession of cocaine for sale, and child endangerment, among others.
As Stockton navigates these turbulent times, such collaborative operations reaffirm the community's resilience against crime and violence.