The Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) announced Monday morning the arrest of 13 individuals from Virginia, mostly on charges involving gang activity, following a months-long investigation dubbed “Operation Gang-Green.” The operation targeted “prolific offenders within Lynchburg” and was a collaborative effort with the U.S. Marshal Service, Virginia State Police, and the Alcohol Tobacco Firearms.
Of the 13 arrested, 12 face charges explicitly mentioning gang activity, with three of them being juveniles whose names were not released by law enforcement. Lieutenant Craig Dowdy of the LPD stated that these separate charges were tied together when it was discovered that they were all gang-related, leading to additional charges such as gang participation and gang recruitment of a juvenile.
Officials emphasized that these gangs intentionally recruit juveniles to secure a line of succession and because they would likely receive less severe sentences if caught. Gang participation, gang recruitment of a juvenile, and assault by mob are the three major crimes faced by the 13 individuals, with two of them being felony charges that can result in up to 10 years in prison.
Lieutenant Dowdy highlighted the importance of programs aimed at providing juveniles with positive influences and better paths in life to prevent gang involvement. The arrested individuals include Ta’juan Jerome Banks, Larneaux Jai’velle Allen, Kanye Shi’mik Phillips, Rodrick Earl Ford, Thomas Edward Tanner Jr., Christian Anthony Cruz II, Jordan O’Neil Banks, Damani Omar Bailey, Ta’Shaun Jermaine Howell, and Adrian Lashad Watson, along with three unnamed juvenile males.
During the operation, law enforcement also seized two firearms. Shortly after the arrests, another gang member turned themselves in. “Operation Gang-Green” demonstrates the concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies in Virginia to combat gang activity and protect the community from prolific offenders.
TND.com
