Following a two-month initiative called "Operation Showdown," 76 individuals have been arrested in Fort Worth, Texas, for firearms and drug offenses. The operation aimed to reduce violent crime in the area.
The announcement was made by Nancy E. Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, and Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives (ATF). Other key partners included Eduardo Chavez from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Keith Brown from Texoma High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area.
Federal charges were filed against 56 defendants for offenses such as illegal firearms trafficking and conspiracy to distribute drugs like cocaine and fentanyl. Potential sentences range from 10 years to life imprisonment. State charges were filed against 20 defendants in Tarrant County District Court for possession of controlled substances.
During the operation, law enforcement seized 287 firearms, including pistols and machineguns, as well as significant quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, and marijuana.
Examples of those arrested include Darrick Carter and Maya Bradshaw among others charged with drug trafficking. Anthony Wilson faces charges related to firearm possession during a gun sale while on probation. Eight individuals from Venezuela were charged with drug trafficking and firearm possession.
"This operation highlights the tremendous work of our law enforcement partners," said Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy Larson. ATF's Bennie Mims emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts like Operation Showdown to combat violent crime.
DEA Special Agent Eduardo A. Chavez noted that since April they have successfully removed illicit drugs and weapons from neighborhoods in Fort Worth. Tarrant County District Attorney Phil Sorrells stated that they are sending a clear message against drug dealers operating in their community.
Keith Brown from Texoma HIDTA stressed cooperation among law enforcement agencies to enhance public safety.
Operation Showdown is part of Operation Take Back America aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations through resources from various Department of Justice initiatives.
The public is reminded that these charges are allegations until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
