Multi-Agency Gang Takedown Results in Nearly 90 Arrests

Overview:Multiagency Gang Takedown Results in Nearly 90 Arrests

Operation "Hybrid Havoc" targeted gang members who were allegedly responsible for violent crimes, including homicide, drug trafficking and obtaining illegal firearms. As a result, 88 people were taken into custody, according to a news release from the attorney general's office.

STOCKTON – State Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that an operation targeting violent street gangs in Stockton was successful and resulted in nearly 90 arrests.

Operation “Hybrid Havoc” targeted gang members who were allegedly responsible for violent crimes, including homicide, drug trafficking and obtaining illegal firearms. As a result, 88 people were taken into custody, according to a news release from the attorney general’s office.

A multiagency agency law enforcement effort resulted in 88 arrests and the confiscation of 58 firearms. (MIKE FITZGERALD/CONTRIBUTOR)

“Collaborative law enforcement efforts such as operation Hybrid Havoc are a key component in our efforts to protect Californians and public safety,” said Attorney General Bonta. “I am thankful for the work of our agents and our partners in Stockton. Today, we are announcing that we have not only taken dangerous individuals, illegal guns, and drugs off Stockton streets — but also helped bring closure to families grieving for the loss of their loved ones. While we recognize that the trauma of gun violence and crime continues be felt across our communities, today we helped the Stockton community take an important step toward healing.”

The operation in partnership with local law enforcement began May 18 and ended June 1. Over the course of the investigation, authorities executed 24 search warrants and 18 arrest warrants in the north Stockton area. The 88 individuals were arrested on suspicion of felony offenses, and police seized 58 firearms and confiscated various illegal drugs including MDMA, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl.

Prosecutors said two homicides were solved as a result of the investigation.

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office will review the cases of all those arrested for potential filing in San Joaquin County Superior Court. The alleged crimes include murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and firearms and narcotics trafficking.

“We send a clear message today to those who commit harm in our communitities. Violence capacity will not be tolerated,” San Joaquin County District Attorney Tori Verber-Salazar said.