Gang Warrants Served on Multiple SFV Locations
Van Nuys. Gang officers from across the San Fernando Valley and SWAT served search warrants on fifteen locations early this morning, mostly in Van Nuys and Arleta. The warrants stemmed from a near-fatal shooting of a female gang associate in Reseda on August 3, 2015.
“This case first looked like a real whodunit,” explained Capt. Paul Vernon, Commanding Officer of the West Valley Patrol Division. “But using intelligence gathered from gang officers, the detectives not only identified their probable shooters, but uncovered a brewing feud among local rival gangs.”
Since the initial August 3rd shooting, investigators attributed over a half dozen more shootings to the same gang. The search warrants were developed on locations where investigators believed the gang members might have stored guns.
After all fifteen warrants were served, police arrested 4 men and seized 6 guns, including AR15 and AK47 assault rifles, from the various residences. Detectives will work to determine the suspects’ involvement and test fire the guns to determine if they were used in the shootings.
“We expect today’s operation will put a big hurt on this gang and its ability to operate,” Vernon added. “Taking these guns out of these criminals’ hands will surely make the Valley a little safer.”
Anyone with information on these crimes is urged to call Det. James Fillmore, West Valley Homicide, at (818) 374-7709. Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Online tips may be placed at www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.
