15 Suspected Latino Gang Members Arrested

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security arrested 15 people on Friday who they said were members of the MS-13 gang.

Investigators told 10TV's Andy Hirsch that the arrests will put a significant dent in the gang's Columbus operation.

The arrests were made between 3 and 7 p.m. on the city's north side, including Tamarack Circle. Areas around Interstate 71 and state Route 161 were targeted.

Police did not immediately release the names of the people they arrested.

"Clearly, we believe that MS-13 is one of the more notorious gangs for violence," said Cmdr. Jeffrey Blackwell of the Columbus Police Strategic Response Bureau.

Investigators pointed to a 2006 quadruple shooting at a Mexican restaurant, when two people were shot to death in front of others as they ate. Police said that MS-13 gang members committed the slayings.

According to police, the gang is concentrated mainly on the city's north side but has spread to areas including the west side and Whitehall.

"One of the problems of the Hispanic community is they're so afraid," Blackwell said. "They're so fearful of retaliatory acts by MS-13 members. It really hampers investigations."

Investigators would not comment on what prompted Friday's roundup. None of the 15 alleged gang members were charged with murder but investigators said that MS-13 is connected to at least two recent slayings in the city.

MS-13 operates in at least 42 states and the District of Columbia. It has between 6,000 and 10,000 members nationwide. They often recruit middle and high school students.

MS-13 members are known for violent crimes, including rape, murder, carjackings and home invasions, police said.

Stay with 10TV News and 10TV.com for additional information.

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15 Suspected Latino Gang Members Arrested

By 10TV.com

Saturday, December 13, 2008 10:31 AM

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