"Federal authorities arrested 12 alleged members and associates of the 18th Street gang Thursday (March 5), saying the group ran a criminal network around Los Angeles' MacArthur Park that mixed drug trafficking, illegal gambling, extortion, and violence."
"Investigators say the operation functioned as both a narcotics marketplace and a hub for underground gambling tied to gang control of the neighborhood. The arrests stem from a sweeping federal investigation that produced seven grand jury indictments targeting people prosecutors believe played key roles in the gang's activities."
"Court documents say some gang members set up operations inside tents in the park, blending into the homeless population while selling drugs and coordinating other illegal business. Authorities say the broader investigation uncovered large quantities of narcotics moving through the network."
Federal authorities arrested 12 alleged members and associates of the 18th Street gang, the largest street gang in Los Angeles, on charges stemming from a sweeping investigation into criminal operations centered in MacArthur Park. The gang ran an integrated criminal enterprise combining drug trafficking, illegal gambling, extortion, and violence. Gang members operated from tents in the park, blending with the homeless population while conducting illegal business. Seven grand jury indictments targeted key figures in the organization. The investigation recovered over 175 pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl, $80,000 in cash, and six firearms. Charges include racketeering conspiracy and murder, with prosecutors alleging members enforced criminal enterprises through threats and violence.
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