Federal Agents Arrest 28 Suspected Drug Dealers in ‘Operation Free Skid Row’ Raids in Los Angeles

Federal and local law enforcement officers arrested 28 suspected drug dealers on Thursday in a coordinated sweep of Skid Row in downtown Los Angeles, according to the New York Post.

The operation, called "Operation Free Skid Row," involved the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Los Angeles Police Department, and other agencies. Officers first targeted alleged distributors of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and PCP at their homes, then carried out a midmorning sweep through the neighborhood itself.

44 warrants and a convoy through downtown

Authorities served 44 search warrants in all, and at least 14 suspects were in custody by 9 a.m., the Post reported. A convoy of roughly 100 law enforcement vehicles entered the roughly 50-block area, where officers cordoned off sections known for drug sales and searched tents and vehicles.

Investigators seized drugs, firearms, and luxury vehicles. Prosecutors said cases describe dealers using disguises, storefronts, sidewalk tents, and low-income housing units to hide sales and stash narcotics, and that the investigations relied on wiretaps, undercover officers, and drones.

Targeting dealers, officials say

U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, the top federal prosecutor for the Central District of California, told the Post the effort is aimed at dealers who prey on homeless residents and described Thursday’s action as a first step. Skid Row is home to as many as 6,000 homeless people living on the street and in shelters, according to the Post.

Investigators said the operation did not target people who use drugs. The sweep follows similar federal and local actions around MacArthur Park, the Post reported.

Reporting based on coverage by the New York Post.