Valley-wide sweep targets gang members

ANTELOPE VALLEY – Three people were arrested Wednesday (Dec. 19) during an operation that targeted a specific gang within the valley by conducting parole and probation searches of gang members who were previously arrested when the gang was targeted several years ago.

Teams from the Palmdale and Lancaster Sheriff’s Station spread out across the valley and searched 21 locations in Quartz Hill, Palmdale and Lancaster.

The three people busted were arrested for:

• Possession of methamphetamine and additional methamphetamine was discovered during the booking process.
• Possession of a Firearm.
• Violation of probation.

The operation was planned by the Sheriff’s Department’s Safe Streets Bureau (SSB). This unit is tasked with the reduction of crimes committed by gang-members.

Lieutenant Larry Del Meese said it was important to re-visit gang members following their release from jail or prison to ensure they are complying with the terms and conditions of their parole or probationary status.

“While the majority of those contacted were in compliance with the terms and conditions of their parole and probation, a small percentage of those contacted were arrested,” Del Meese said. “This shows that there are still some of these gang members, and their family and associates, which are violating the law. We will continue to do our duty until their illegal activities stops.”

Since November of this year, numerous operations have resulted in nearly 100 arrests and nearly 150 searches and search warrants conducted, according to Lieutenant Larry Gregg, the Antelope Valley Crime Fighting Initiatives (AVCFI) coordinator.

Gregg said these types of operations will continue throughout 2013.

“It is always the goal of not only the Sheriff’s Department, but the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale to make each year safer than the last,” Gregg said. “While that may not always be the case, we will not waiver from our commitment to do so.”

The public is encouraged to provide information regarding any crimes directly to the Palmdale Sheriff’s Station by calling 661-272-2400. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

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