Alligator seized during operation targeting gang members in Texas
Authorities in Dallas recently conducted a successful multi-agency operation that led to the arrest of eight alleged gang members who were found in possession of guns, drugs, money, and even a reptilian accomplice. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) spearheaded the investigation, which culminated in the execution of “Operation Blue Laces” in South Dallas.
Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Chad Meacham, confirmed that the operation resulted in the apprehension of eight members of the 42 Oakland Crips street gang. During the operation, law enforcement agents seized a significant amount of contraband, including 14 firearms, over a kilogram of methamphetamine pills, various other drugs such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, alprazolam, marijuana, hash, and over $47,000 in cash. Additionally, investigators confiscated six vehicles, multiple pieces of Crips-themed jewelry, and a caiman alligator.
With the assistance of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the alligator was safely relocated to the Dallas Zoo. The individuals arrested as part of this operation were identified as Kendrick Jamal Young, Christopher Jamiel Love, Alex Jerome Bowman, Victor Scott Wingham, Joshua Jimond Wheatley, Travion Williams, Jihadd Thies Gorree Thomas, and Jamarian Augustus Hewitt.
Young, Love, Bowman, Wingham, and Wheatley were charged with conspiracy to possess controlled substances with the intent to distribute. Young, Love, and Hewitt faced additional charges of being felons in possession of a firearm and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Hewitt also faces charges related to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and using a cellphone to facilitate a drug felony. Furthermore, Williams and Thomas were charged with carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
During a detention hearing, prosecutors alleged that the defendants were engaged in daily drug dealing activities at a location known as the “Dead End.” They presented evidence suggesting that the individuals used text messages to warn each other about law enforcement raids and sent individuals to search for missing drugs following these raids. Prosecutors also claimed that the suspects resumed drug dealing activities after the conclusion of the operation.
According to Meacham’s office, many of the suspects have extensive criminal histories involving drug and firearms-related offenses. The operation was a collaborative effort involving various agencies, including the ATF, DEA’s Dallas Field Division, Dallas Police Department, Homeland Security Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, IRS Criminal Investigative Division, Texas Department of Public Safety, Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office, and Texas Game Wardens.
“Operation Blue Laces” underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat gang-related criminal activities and ensure the safety and security of communities. The successful operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to address organized crime and maintain public safety in Dallas and beyond.
