Multi-Agency Effort Leads to Several Indictments of Members Asian Organized Crime
On Tuesday, September 15, 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) held a press conference to announce the Federal Indictments of 25 individuals involved in organized Asian crime that were linked to investigations that spread across the nation, including Los Angeles, California, Albuquerque, New Mexico; Chicago, Illinois; Las Vegas, Nevada; New York, New York and San Francisco, California.
In collaboration with the FBI, DHS Homeland Security Investigations, Los Angeles-High Intensity Trafficking Area 49, Los Angeles Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the investigation lead to the largest takedown in the Los Angeles area since 2002.
Members of the Asian Criminal Enterprise (ACE) were charged with 42 counts, including distribution of methamphetamine, cocaine, and crack cocaine; engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activity. The ACE members used untraceable assault rifles (also known as “ghost guns”) to further advance illegal activity.
During the course of the operation, approximately 27 pounds of methamphetamine, 89.1 grams of cocaine/cocaine base, and 32 firearms (to include handguns, assault rifles, ghost guns, live ammunition, magazines, and weapon accessories) were recovered.
The cases are currently being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn T. Andrews, Violent and Organized Crime Section.
For more information regarding ‘Operation Black Phoenix’, visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdca/pr/operation-black-phoenix-leads-federal-charges-against-25-who-allegedly-engaged-illegal
