Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Authorities in the Lake Tahoe region have announced the arrests of 15 individuals in California and Nevada as part of a large-scale operation targeting gang activity and illegal drug sales. The arrests stem from a multi-year, multi-agency investigation into cartel-supplied gangs operating in the area.
Operation Daisy Cutter and Operation Summer Heat
The coordinated efforts, known as Operation Daisy Cutter and Operation Summer Heat, involved 21 search and arrest warrants executed across South Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas in both states. Law enforcement agencies from federal, state, and local levels participated, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI.
Officials reported that 10 people in California and five in Nevada were arrested on Thursday, with several warrants still active to be executed in the coming weeks.
Suspects and Charges
The individuals arrested face a variety of charges, including:
- Possession of cocaine, fentanyl, and ketamine for sale
- Illegal sale of firearms
- Probation violations
The suspects include Norteño gang leaders and associates accused of trafficking drugs while attempting to recruit middle and high school students. Some are alleged to have exploited male recruits to gain access to underage girls. Other defendants include previously deported individuals, alleged members of outlaw motorcycle gangs, and suspects connected to fatal overdoses.
Officials released the identities of those arrested:…