HOLYOKE — A major law enforcement operation involving multiple agencies has resulted in a series of arrests and the implementation of community outreach efforts, authorities announced Thursday.
Dubbed Operation Safe Streets 4, the collaborative effort was led by the Holyoke Police Department, alongside the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, Massachusetts State Police units (including VFAS – West, Gang Unit – West, CINRET -West, Community Action Team – B Troop), District Attorney Anthony Gullini’s Hampden County Narcotics Task Force, and the MSP Hampden /Safe SPDU Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Section – West.
Federal agencies such as the FBI Western Massachusetts Gang Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Marshal’s Service also played key roles in the operation.
The initiative, which took place on March 1, culminated in 22 arrests and the execution of three search warrants.
Law enforcement conducted 78 property checks and made 19 motor vehicle traffic stops as part of the operation.
Additionally, 70 attempts were made to reach out to individuals for mental health and substance abuse support.
Among the arrests, a variety of charges have been levied against the individuals, including trespassing, warrants, unlicensed and negligent operation of a motor vehicle, drug possession and intent to distribute Classes A and B drugs, conspiracy to violate drug law, distribution of a class drug, and trafficking Class A drugs in the amount of 18-36 grams.
One individual was charged with possession of a firearm in a felony and another with possessing a firearm without an FID card.
A firearm was also recovered during the operation.
The successful outcome of Operation Safe Streets 4 is attributed to the strong partnership between local and federal law enforcement agencies.
The Holyoke Police Department has expressed gratitude to all participating partners for their contributions to enhancing community safety and addressing the challenges posed by drug-related crimes and firearm violations.
