A joint investigation dating back to May 2016 has resulted in numerous arrests of people alleged to be members of a large gang. The arrests were made on February 23 when federal agents and Indiana police officers executed search warrants at four locations on the north and north-east sides of Indianapolis. The investigation has produced a number of gun and drug dealing charges.
The authorities released a 45-page criminal complaint that describes some of the group’s alleged activities. Members of the group allegedly bought and sold large amounts of guns and drugs and engaged in various violent acts. The group allegedly operated in an area bounded by 30th and 38th Streets between Keystone and Sutherland Avenues in northeast Indianapolis.
More than 50 people were arrested during the operation. The searches allegedly yielded methamphetamine, marijuana, synthetic marijuana, $20,000 in cash, 29 cellphones and 10 guns, including an AK-47. Police claim to have purchased or seized 45 guns during the operation. The defendants will face a variety of federal drug dealing and firearms charges in federal court. Some may also face state criminal charges in Marion County Superior Court.
The charges against the defendants in this case are very serious. However, all of the defendants are entitled to be presumed innocent until they are proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Anyone facing criminal charges after being arrested as part of a large investigation may wish to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney for an evaluation of how the law and evidence will affect that person’s individual situation.
Source: Indy Star, “IMPD, feds dismantle north-side drug-trafficking organization,” Ryan Martin, Feb. 27, 2018