Gang crackdown nets 38 arrests in Toledo

12/10/2012

A recent crackdown on Toledo area gangs netted 38 arrests that included 11 felony charges and thousands of dollars in seized drugs, authorities said today.

The citywide sweep was a joint effort by the Toledo Police Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Adult Parole Authority.

The sweeps are conducted periodically as part of a citywide effort to reduce gang activity in Toledo, said Toledo Police Sgt. Joe Heffernan.

Involving state and federal authorities can result in stiffer penalties for those arrested and charged, he said.

"It sends a message that this isn't just the Toledo Police Department," said Mr. Heffernan."When gang members see we're riding with a State Trooper they know it's not going to be a good day for them."

 The sweep included the seizure of three guns, including two stolen handguns; $1,982 in cash, and $2,660 worth of marijuana, $40 in cocaine and $875 other drugs.

In addition to the felony charges, authorities handed out 25 misdemeanor charges and 29 traffic citations.