ICE arrests 104 in Utah during trafficking roundup

Published: Tuesday, March 1, 2011 11:54 p.m. MST
By Pat Reavy, Deseret News

SALT LAKE CITY — A three-month federal enforcement effort concentrating on trans-national gangs affiliated with drug trafficking resulted in more than 600 arrests nationwide, including more than 100 in Utah, according to officials.

"It was a very aggressive enforcement operation," said ICE's Homeland Security Investigation Resident Agent-in-Charge Mark Cutchen.

Those arrested in "Project Southern Tempest" were either a member of a trans-national gang or an associate, he said. Everyone from street-level dealers to some "heavy hitters" were arrested, Cutchen said. Agents seized various amounts of weapons, money and drugs, including marijuana and methamphetamine.

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ICE Photo

In a handout photo, the face of a suspect has been electronically blurred to protect his identity, during an arrest Feb. 3, 2011. The arrest was part of a nation-wide round up transnational gang members and associates suspected in drug trafficking.

"It was a very significant enforcement effort. I think we did send a very strong message, 'They're certainly not welcome here in Utah,'" Cutchen said.

Of the 104 arrested in Utah, 42 were in Salt Lake County, including 14 in Salt Lake City, 27 were in Utah County, 15 were in Weber and Davis counties and 14 of those arrested were in St. George.

Asked how much of Utah's illegal drug situation was due to drugs shipped from other countries or foreign nationals coming to Utah to set up marijuana growing operations, Cutchen said he didn't have exact figures but believed it was a "relatively significant amount."

Cutchen said while "Project Southern Tempest" resulted in significant arrests, it won't end the drug problem.

"This is a battle. It's going to be a long road that will require a sustained effort. You arrest 104 and 104 are lurking about to take their place," he said.

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