Operation Scarecrow: 85 Arrested, Weapons Seized In Gang Takedown

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA — It began with a murder in San Juan Capistrano on Christmas Day in 2016. That case has branched into the largest undercover investigation in Orange County Sheriff's Department History, what has been dubbed Operation Scarecrow.

A press conference, including California Attorney General Javier Becerra and Orange County Sheriff's Department Undersheriff Don Barnes disclosed the findings, Wednesday afternoon.

The Orange County Sheriff's Department and the California Department of Justice announced the arrest of 85 gang members, seized 36 firearms, 14 pounds of Methamphetamine, 3 pounds of heroin, and 2 stolen weapons, also credit card readers and counterfeit money. 37 search warrants were served during the investigation.

This is a developing story. Please refresh this page for the latest information.

Renee Schiavone, Photo