Operation Results in Arrests and Seizures in Fort Worth
In a two-month operation focused on combating violent crime in Fort Worth, federal and Texas law enforcement agents arrested 76 individuals, confiscating hundreds of firearms and 22 kilos of drugs. Some of those arrested are believed to be associated with the Tren de Aragua gang, and one was identified as an undocumented immigrant.
“Our goal was to lessen violent crime in Fort Worth, Texas,” explained Nancy Larson, a lawyer for the Northern District of Texas, regarding what was termed Operation Showdown. “And we accomplished that together.”
At a news conference, Larson emphasized, “Removing 76 guns and drug traffickers from the streets will significantly impact the city. It’s going to help reduce crime since these individuals won’t be able to peddle their weapons and drugs.”
Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Weyborn mentioned that his department utilized SWAT teams, K9 units, and drones to assist ATF agents. He reaffirmed their commitment to community safety, indicating, “We are dedicated to tackling violent crime and upholding justice.” Reports indicate that many of those detained had prior convictions for violent offenses.
According to news reported by CBS, the operation led to the seizure of 287 firearms, including nearly 150 items described as “machine gun conversion devices.” Benny Mimus, a special agent for the ATF’s Dallas office, noted that one gun confiscated just hours before was linked to a shooting, while three others were connected to murders, with 22 of the weapons being reported stolen.
Eduardo Chavez, a DEA special agent in charge of the Dallas office, remarked on the operation’s impact, stating, “It represents a significant volume. Fentanyl can’t just fade into the background of our society. There are days when we face challenges silently, and our families are affected. We shouldn’t be afraid.”
Kieth Brown, from the Texoma High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, pointed out how the evidence presented—guns and drugs—clearly reflected the concerning criminal history of the individuals involved.
Of the 76 arrested, 56 are currently facing federal charges related to drug trafficking involving substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl. Larson also mentioned connections to the Tren de Aragua crime organization from Venezuela.
Beyond the arrests, investigators seized over 22 kilograms of drugs, which, officials claim, could yield around 240,000 potentially lethal doses of fentanyl.
Tarrant County District Attorney Phil Sorrells warned, “If you choose to poison our city, be prepared to face the full consequences of the law. There will be no exceptions.”
Fort Worth’s interim police chief, Robert Allledge, expressed optimism, stating, “I can confidently say our community is safer than it was two months ago.” Larson added that those immigrants arrested who are illegally in the U.S. are likely to be transferred to immigration enforcement after serving any sentences they receive.
