San Bernardino County, in collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies, continues to make strides in the fight against crime with Operation Consequences. Initiated earlier this month, the operation involves targeted crime suppression, parole, and probation checks in the High Desert and the Sheriff's jurisdiction surrounding the city of San Bernardino. The effort has so far led to numerous arrests and the seizure of multiple firearms and narcotics, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department.
The week-long operation from September 16 to September 22, 2023, involved targeted efforts within the jurisdictions of Twentynine Palms, Highland, San Bernardino, Muscoy, Upland, Victorville, Devore, Ontario, and Rialto. It resulted in 18 felony arrests, the seizure of 57 firearms (including 10 unserialized "ghost guns"), and the confiscation of over one and one-half pounds of narcotics.
The personnel involved in the operation include the Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division, the Specialized Enforcement Division, the patrol stations, and the San Bernardino Police Department. In addition, they collaborated with the California Highway Patrol, San Bernardino County Probation, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
Ghost guns, which are unserialized and untraceable firearms, have gained considerable attention in recent years. Their presence not only posse, a direct threat to public safety, but also makes it challenging for law enforcement agencies to track their origin and crack down on criminal activities linked to their use. The seizure of 10 of these weapons during Operation Consequences highlights the growing presence of such firearms in the hands of criminals.
- As the operation moves into its next phase, San Bernardino County and its law enforcement partners are clear in their resolve to maintain public safety and enhance the quality of life in the region. The targeted approach taken in Operation Consequences allows for a more focused effort in areas with a high incidence of criminal activity, better enabling the apprehension and arrest of criminals involved in gang-related activities and illegal firearms possession.
