Massachusetts

Nearly 150 Arrested, Including Dozens of Alleged Gang Members, in Massive 5-Month Operation

The operation also resulted in the seizure of numerous weapons and drugs

Nearly 150 people, including 52 alleged gang members, were arrested as part of a massive, 5-month sting focused on the Lawrence, Massachusetts area.

The U.S. Attorney's Office said 146 people wanted for violent crimes were arrested as part of what they are calling "Operation Triple Beam."

The operation, which began on Jan. 1, targeted violent offenders and gang members wanted for drug trafficking and other violent crimes including murder, kidnapping, the rape and sexual assault of children and armed home invasions.

The operation also resulted in the seizure of eight pistols, one semi-automatic rifle, one 12-gauge shotgun and more than two kilos of drugs, including cocaine, crack, fentanyl, heroin and marijuana.

According to prosecutors, the men and women arrested have been charged in both state and federal courts. Their names and the charges they are facing were not immediately released Friday.

"Removing these fugitives, including alleged rapists, murderers, and drug traffickers, will make Lawrence and neighboring towns safer," U.S. Attorney Andrew E. Lelling said in a statement. "Law-abiding residents of Lawrence should be able to live and work without fear."

Lawrence Police Chief Roy Vasque thanked the U.S. Marshals and the U.S. Attorney's Office for their work to help make the city safer.

"Let this be a strong message to all that criminals will not take refuge here," Vasque said.

Operation Triple Beam was led by the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, which included Lawrence police and state police.

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