Federal ATF-Led Takedown Hits Puente-13 Gang in Major LA Crackdown
Right now, a major federal law enforcement operation is drawing attention across Los Angeles County, and it centers on the ATF playing a key role in dismantling a violent street gang tied to the Mexican Mafia. Over the past few days, what has been described as a years-long investigation finally came to a head, with federal agents arresting 17 members and associates of the Puente-13 gang during a sweeping early-morning takedown across the San Gabriel Valley.
According to federal authorities, this operation was the result of nearly three years of investigative work. Multiple agencies were involved, but the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was at the center of the effort. Warrants were executed at more than 20 locations, with arrests being carried out almost simultaneously to prevent suspects from escaping or destroying evidence. By the end of the sweep, a total of 20 defendants had been charged, though two suspects remain on the run and one is already in state custody.
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What was uncovered during the investigation paints a serious picture. Prosecutors say the Puente-13 gang relied on violence and intimidation to control drug trafficking in its territory, all while operating under the influence of the Mexican Mafia. The gang is accused of being involved in shootings, kidnappings, illegal gun sales, and large-scale narcotics distribution. Several incidents stretching back to 2022 and 2023 were outlined in court documents, including a brutal kidnapping where one victim was severely beaten before managing to escape.
The ATF and its partners seized a massive cache of weapons and drugs. Dozens of firearms were recovered, including rifles, short-barreled weapons, and a machine gun conversion device. Some of the guns were found with obliterated serial numbers, which investigators say is a clear attempt to avoid tracing. Alongside the weapons, authorities seized roughly 10 pounds of methamphetamine, thousands of pills containing fentanyl and carfentanil, large amounts of ammunition, body armor, and cash.
Officials emphasized that carfentanil, one of the drugs recovered, is especially dangerous, being far more potent than fentanyl. It was described as a substance that poses a serious threat not only to users, but also to first responders and the wider community.
Federal prosecutors have made it clear that the consequences could be severe. If convicted, nine of the defendants face potential life sentences in federal prison. Law enforcement leaders say this operation was designed to remove dangerous individuals, guns, and drugs from the streets, and they believe a significant criminal organization has now been dismantled.
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