Breaking News: 16 Arrested in Massive Columbus Street Gang Takedown

Breaking News: 16 Arrested in Massive Columbus Street Gang Takedown

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — After a two-year investigation, law enforcement has successfully arrested 16 individuals tied to a violent street gang in central Ohio. The suspects, all allegedly members of the Livingston and Lonsdale Bloods, have been implicated in drug trafficking and violent assaults that have long affected the Columbus area.

The Columbus Division of Police’s Gang Enforcement Unit led the extensive investigation, which targeted gang members responsible for terrorizing the Far East Side neighborhood and other parts of the city for nearly two decades. Known as Operation Pocket Aces, the crackdown resulted in a 191-count indictment, marking a significant blow to the gang’s operations.

According to Sgt. Shawn Gruber of the Gang Enforcement Unit, the investigation aimed to dismantle the criminal network, and police believe there are still other members at large. Gruber issued a stern warning to those remaining in the gang: “We’ve laid the groundwork, and if they commit one more act of violence, then they’ll be joining their friends behind bars.”

Residents of the Far East Side, where the gang has had a substantial presence, are feeling a sense of relief. Chandler Tennant, a local resident, expressed his surprise and relief upon hearing the news of the arrests, mentioning that he recognized some of the suspects. “It’s good to know that we can go to the store safer now,” Tennant said, reflecting the growing sense of security in the area.

The suspects face a range of charges, including drug trafficking and attempted murder, among others. The Columbus Police Department released body camera footage showing the takedown of the gang members earlier this month, providing a closer look at the operation that involved multiple law enforcement agencies.

The investigation and subsequent arrests come at a critical time, as the community continues to struggle with gang-related violence and drug-related issues. With the major arrests, authorities are hopeful that this action will send a strong message to criminal organizations in the city and beyond: law enforcement is committed to rooting out gangs and restoring safety to affected neighborhoods.

While the arrests have brought some peace to residents, police remain vigilant. As they continue to investigate and monitor gang activity, they are urging the public to report any suspicious activity or information that could assist in future operations.

With this significant bust, Columbus authorities are confident they’ve disrupted a major part of the gang’s operations, but they stress the importance of continued cooperation with the community to fully eliminate the gang’s influence and ensure long-term safety in the area.