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More Than 20 MS-13 Gang Members Arrested In California

Mike Brest Reporter
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Over 20 MS-13 gang members were arrested in California on Friday as a result of a months long multi-agency investigation. Older indictments that also stemmed from this investigation were released as well.

The charges covered a broad range and included:

  • assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering
  • conspiracy to distribute
  • possession with intent to distribute
  • murder
  • kidnapping

21 people were charged with federal crimes and six were charged with breaking state laws.

Two MS-13 members were charged with kidnapping and murder back in January. Others face charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and drug conspiracy among a long list.

Sixteen people were charged for drug trafficking. The release said, “these defendants allegedly obtained, sold, and profited from street level drug dealing, and used the proceeds to further MS-13’s criminal objectives.”

Specific jail cells belonging to suspected gang members were searched as well. Phones, drugs and weapons were confiscated.

“MS-13 is a brutal transnational criminal organization that has wreaked havoc in communities across the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski in a DOJ press release.  “The gang engages in indiscriminate and senseless acts of violence, as demonstrated by the charges announced today, which allege murder, attempted murder, and drug trafficking in the State of California. Dismantling MS-13 and other violent gangs that terrorize our streets will remain a top priority of the Department of Justice.

The president has taken a hard stance against the violent El Salvadorian gang.

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