San Diego: 25 arrested in nationwide immigration sweep
San Diego: 25 arrested in nationwide immigration sweep
1 hour ago • By EDWARD SIFUENTES esifuentes@nctimes.com
Immigration authorities arrested 25 people in San Diego County as part of a nationwide operation targeting criminal gangs that netted 637 gang members and associates, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The operation, called Project Nefarious, was conducted in 150 U.S. cities, including Vista, San Diego, Calexico and San Ysidro, and in Honduras, federal officials said.
Of the people arrested in San Diego County, nine are facing criminal prosecution for federal or state crimes ranging from illegal re-entry after deportation to document fraud and battery, officials said. They include people from South Korea, Somalia and Mexico.
"Through gang enforcement surges like Project Nefarious, we are taking back our streets and making it clear that the scourge of fear and crime fostered by these ruthless organizations is coming to an end," said Derek Benner, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in San Diego, in a prepared statement.
Among those facing federal charges is a 37-year-old gang member in San Diego with an extensive criminal history, including a conviction for attempted murder in 1993 that resulted in a seven-year prison term, ICE officials said. He is being prosecuted for returning to the country illegally after being deported.
In addition to the criminal arrests, 16 people with gang ties were taken into custody on administrative immigration violations, officials said. They include people with criminal convictions for drugs and weapons violations.
Of the 637 gang members and associates arrested nationwide, 479 were charged with criminal offenses, 210 had violent criminal histories, 10 were wanted for murder, and 290 were citizens of other countries, officials said. Administrative immigration violations were the reason for 158 arrests.
Nationwide, authorities also seized 52 firearms, more than 5,400 pounds of marijuana, 6.6 pounds of cocaine, $201,437 in cash and 14 vehicles.
REGION: 25 arrested in nationwide immigration sweep : North County Times - Californian