Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon said that an operation dismantling a cartel-connected drug trafficking organization in Compton was a "powerful, combined effort" to prevent the network from expanding across Los Angeles County. Gascon made this statement in a press release dated November 13.
"Today, we mark a significant victory in our fight against drug trafficking and the violence it breeds within our communities," said George Gascon, DA. "This takedown represents a powerful, combined effort to disrupt a large drug trafficking organization that took root in Compton and spread devastation across Los Angeles County. Thanks to the tireless work of our Major Narcotics Division, in collaboration with the Homicide and Gang Task Force of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and other crucial partners, we have removed a dangerous supply of fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, PCP, and firearms from our streets. This operation will undoubtedly reduce further crimes tied to these dangerous substances and weapons, making our neighborhoods safer."
On November 13, a narcotics operation led by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD), the U.S. Attorney's Office Central District of California, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) uncovered trafficking activities involving fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and firearms across the border. The operation resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals with direct connections to Mexican cartels and local street gangs, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Information Bureau.
According to KTLA 5 news, beginning in November 2022, an investigation by LASD Narcotics detectives and Compton Sheriff’s deputies led to the discovery of 275,000 fentanyl pills, 11 kilograms of cocaine, and approximately four kilograms of heroin. This investigation has led to the prosecution of two individuals. Since then, efforts have focused on "dismantling drug trafficking organizations operating within the county."
"As a result of this operation," said LASD Chief Joe Mendoza, "we have taken significant steps in dismantling dangerous gangs that threaten our communities." Mendoza added that by removing large quantities of deadly drugs and illegal firearms from the streets, they are sending a clear message: they are relentless in their mission to protect neighborhoods and hold those who endanger public safety accountable.
According to an American Military University Edge report, cartels' operations are supported by U.S.-based gangs that manage stash houses and facilitate various illicit trades such as human trafficking and drug distribution. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reports these networks operate with relative impunity while spreading into U.S. cities through collaborations with local gangs.
George Gascon is currently serving as the Los Angeles District Attorney and is a former Assistant Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department.
