Operation ‘Gridlock’ revealed: ‘Truly made Fresno a safer city’

FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – More than 30 arrests were made and over 50 illegal weapons were seized following the take-down of an organized criminal group in Fresno County, according to the state Attorney General’s office and the Fresno Police Department.

The announcement on Friday heralded the success of Operation “Gridlock”, an investigation led by Fresno Police into what officers say is one of the city’s most violent street gangs. In total, there were 32 arrests made and 59 illegal weapons seized, according to the Fresno Police Department. Of those suspects arrested, 28 of them are facing state charges and four are facing federal charges.

Operation “Gridlock” began at the end of 2023 and was made up of both an investigation and enforcement component. Gangs targeted by the operation were involved in homicides, shootings, illegal narcotics sales, and human trafficking, officials say.

Chief Paco Balderrama added that the operation resulted in 10 human trafficking victims being rescued. The investigation uncovered a human trafficking pipeline linking Stockton to Los Angeles and Las Vegas, with hubs in Fresno and Bakersfield.

“Operation Gridlock is one of the largest investigative operations the Fresno Police Department has initiated,” said Chief Paco Balderrama. “It started with several gang shootings that occurred in the fall of 2023 and culminated into an extensive cooperative investigation involving 10 local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.”

This operation has truly made Fresno a safer city.

Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama

According to officials, search warrants and arrest warrants were served on Thursday resulting in the arrest of numerous violent gang members, and the seizure of multiple illegal firearms, ammunition, and drugs. Around $42,000 in cash was also seized.

“Individuals who are part of these criminal organizations committing acts of violence here in Fresno County will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni. “This operation demonstrates that the safety of our residents is our top priority.”

Over 800 personnel from 28 local, state, and federal agencies were involved in Operation “Gridlock”.

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