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Feds Sweep MacArthur Park, Charge 25 in Crackdown on Open-Air Fentanyl Trade

Prosecutors say the operation seeks to reclaim the park by cutting off gang-linked fentanyl supply lines.

Overview

  • The DEA-led sweep, which unfolded Wednesday, resulted in 18 arrests out of 25 people charged and the execution of eight search warrants around MacArthur Park.
  • Agents seized about 40 pounds of fentanyl from a Calabasas residence tied to the case, according to federal prosecutors.
  • An affidavit alleges Mallaly Moreno-Lopez and her boyfriend, Jackson Tarfur, supplied fentanyl and meth to the Alvarado Corridor for street dealers and both were taken into custody.
  • Investigators documented at least 27 separate fentanyl and meth sales between March 9 and April 15 during a weeks-long probe that involved roughly 200 to 300 federal and LAPD personnel.
  • Officials say MacArthur Park sits in turf claimed by gangs including 18th Street, MS-13 and the Crazy Riders and they plan ongoing enforcement, with first court appearances scheduled Thursday and seven suspects still at large.