This narrative was first released onMyNorthwest.com
After an 18-month secret operation targeting drug smuggling, federal, state, and local law enforcement authoritiesarrested 15 peoplelinked to a violent Tacoma street gang called the Knockout Crips.
Law enforcement officials stated that the gang has been a constant presence in Tacoma for 20 years and has been linked to criminal activities, drug trafficking, and violence, such as drive-by shootings in Pierce County.
"The Knockout Crips is a global criminal group whose illegal actions presented a major risk to public safety in the broader Tacoma region," said Colin Jackson from Homeland Security Investigations.
Law enforcement officials conducted a two-month surveillance operation on a Tacoma gang.
Authorities stated they used a two-month wiretap to collect details about the gang and the way its members transported significant amounts of fentanyl.
"A dangerous drug group that distributed and transported thousands of fentanyl pills simultaneously. The drugs were meant for the streets of Tacoma," said Tom Woods from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Prosecutors claimed that gang members used female couriers to transport drugs in their checked baggage from Arizona, passing through the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and delivering them to the streets of the broader Tacoma region.
15 individuals taken into custody, firearms and narcotics confiscated
In addition to over 100 pounds of narcotics, 23 handguns were also confiscated, most of which were stolen.
"They were equipped with weapons, engaged in violent shootings, and dealt in the most hazardous drugs, all while endangering others' lives in pursuit of influence and wealth," Jackson stated.
Fifteen individuals have been taken into custody, and numerous firearms have been removed from the streets, leading investigators to claim that Tacoma's neighborhoods are now safer.
"Twenty-three weapons, these are taken off the streets, and some of these violent people are no longer able to carry out attacks, drive-by shootings, and other violent acts," Jackson stated.
Accusations involve plotting to distribute restricted drugs and unlawful possession of weapons.
The FBI stated that the case is still under investigation, and additional arrests may occur.
Follow James Lynch on X.Learn more about his taleshere. Submit news tips here.