Operation Gridlock, one of Fresno's largest investigative efforts, successfully targeted gang violence through extensive multi-agency collaboration, resulting in 32 arrests and the seizure of 59 firearms. (GV Wire Composite/Paul Marshall)
- Over 800 personnel from 28 different local, state, and federal agencies were involved in the enforcement phase of Operation Gridlock.
- The operation led to the arrest of 32 suspects and the seizure of 59 firearms.
- 48 search warrants were served, with suspects facing charges such as assault with a deadly weapon and human trafficking.
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Operation Gridlock has culminated in a major crackdown on gang violence in Fresno, authorities say.
The operation, initiated in the fall of 2023 due to a surge in gang-related violence, involved a collaborative effort among 11 local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
The enforcement phase reached its peak last Thursday with more than 800 personnel from 28 different agencies executing search and arrest warrants.
As a result, 32 suspects were taken into custody, They face charges ranging from assault with a deadly weapon to illegal firearm possession and trafficking, narcotics sales, and human trafficking.
Twenty-eight suspects face state charges, while four are being prosecuted at the federal level. Additionally, 59 firearms were seized during the operation.
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FBI: “A Successful Dismantling of Violent Gangs’
“Operation Gridlock is one of the largest investigative operations the Fresno Police Department has initiated,” said Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama. “This collaborative effort resulted in significant enforcement actions against gangs involved in serious crimes. It exemplifies our commitment to protecting our community from violence and harm.”
U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert echoed these sentiments, highlighting the operation as a testament to the “incredible teamwork” between various law enforcement agencies, facilitated through the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, which aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized the importance of collaboration in combating community violence. “The California Department of Justice is dedicated to ensuring safe communities, and today’s success demonstrates the power of strong inter-agency cooperation.”
Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni reiterated the commitment to public safety, stressing that individuals involved in criminal organizations would be “prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Siddhartha Patel praised the collaborative efforts and intelligence-driven investigations that led to the successful dismantling of violent gangs. “Our duty is to safeguard the community’s right to live without fear of violence,” Patel stated.
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Agencies Involved in Operation Gridlock
- Fresno Police Department
- Fresno County Sheriff’s Department
- Clovis Police Department
- Fresno County DA SRT
- Adult Compliance Team
- Kings County Sheriff’s Department
- Hanford Police Department
- Visalia Police Department
- Tulare County Sheriff’s Department
- Porterville Police Department
- Madera Regional SWAT
- Federal Bureau of Investigations
- Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms
- U.S. Marshal’s Service
- Homeland Security Investigations
- California Department of Justice
- California Highway Patrol
- California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
- California Army National Guard Counter Drug Taskforce
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