NYPD Arrests 35 People In Drug Bust Along West Indian Parade Day Route
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork)-- Dozens were arrested in a drug bust along the West Indian Day Parade route in Brooklyn as part of the city's effort to curb violence at the celebration this year.
The arrests come after police determined a gang affiliated with the Crips was engaged in an extensive drug operation in Crown Heights, where the festival is celebrated each year.
New York City Police Department Joseph Matzinger said nine search warrants were executed, leading to the arrests of 35 individuals, WCBS 880's Stephanie Colombini reported.
"The recovery of 10 firearms, approximately 3 pounds of marijuana, approximately 1 kilo of cocaine, a quantity of heroin that has yet to be finalized," he said.
Officials consider it a preemptive strike against any possible violence that could occur at the event, 1010 WINS' Al Jones reported. NYPD called it a "targeted investigation."
The city is ramping up security for the festival after a top aide to Governor Andrew Cuomo was fatally shot last year while passing by the celebration. Another man was also stabbed to death that same day.