FBI Operation Nets Nearly 50 Arrests in Latin Kings Gang Crackdown
The FBI has executed a major crackdown on the Latin Kings street gang, resulting in almost 50 arrests across multiple states as part of “Operation Broken Crown.” This initiative, spanning three months, focused on disrupting gang-related activities, illicit drug trafficking, and threats against law enforcement officials.
Why It Matters
This operation highlights ongoing federal efforts to combat gang violence in the U.S., particularly under the Trump administration’s focus on dismantling violent criminal networks. With significant amounts of drugs and firearms seized, the operation aims to enhance community safety and reduce the influence of gangs nationwide.
Key Developments
- Nearly 50 members and associates of the Latin Kings were arrested as part of a multistate operation.
- Key seizures included more than a dozen firearms, roughly $200,000 in illicit funds, and over 10 kilograms of narcotics including cocaine and fentanyl.
- FBI Director Kash Patel commended the operation as part of a broader strategy to dismantle violent gang networks.
- A member of the Latin Kings was arrested for explicitly threatening a law enforcement officer last October.
- In a separate operation in January, four gang members were arrested in Milwaukee for drug trafficking.
Full Report
The FBI’s “Operation Broken Crown” began last October and involved over a dozen field offices collaborating with various federal, state, local, and tribal agencies. The operation was aimed at mitigating the Latin Kings’ nationwide criminal activities, as outlined by President Trump and Attorney General Bondi’s administration.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the operation’s success, noting a 210% increase in gang takedowns involving groups like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua. He stated, “The FBI will continue working 24/7 to crush violent crime and eliminate networks facilitating harm on the American people.”
Among those arrested, one gang member faced charges in Minnesota for possessing a firearm and stealing from an FBI vehicle, while another was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison for methamphetamine distribution. Additionally, separate operations in Milwaukee led to further arrests and the seizure of firearms and substantial amounts of unlawful cash.
Context & Previous Events
The FBI’s crackdown on the Latin Kings is part of a persistent effort to tackle gang violence and related criminal activities across America. Earlier in January, the FBI Milwaukee Area Safe Streets Task Force executed multiple search warrants, resulting in additional arrests for drug trafficking and firearms possession linked to the gang. This initiative reflects an ongoing commitment to safeguarding communities from violent gangs.
