Dozens Arrested in Anaheim Gang Sweeps

Federal and local law enforcement officers staged predawn raids Friday throughout what officials say are gang-controlled Anaheim neighborhoods.

Federal and local law enforcement officers staged predawn raids Friday throughout what officials say are gang-controlled Anaheim neighborhoods – including one where a recent fatal police shooting sparked daily protests – arresting 33 people who they suspect are members of a violent street gang and confiscating 40 weapons, plus drugs and cash.

The raids, the culmination of an investigation dubbed Operation Halo that started in June 2011, began at 4:30 a.m. and focused on the criminal street gang called Eastside Anaheim, whose members are responsible for murders, drug trafficking and other violent crimes, Police Chief John Welter said at a news conference.