From October 13th to October 19th, San Bernardino County witnessed a heightened law enforcement presence during an expansive operation known as Targeted Crime Suppression-Operation Consequences. The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, alongside patrol stations and multiple partnering agencies, has been busy cracking down on crime across various locations, including but not limited to Newberry Springs and Hesperia. In a report released by the Public Affairs Division, 7 search warrants were served as part of the week-long initiative.
The San Bernardino Movement Against Street Hoodlums (SMASH) Street Enforcement Team played a crucial role in the operation, engaging in proactive patrols and suspect interactions. Their efforts resulted in the seizure of 19 firearms and the arrest of over 80 suspects, split between 39 felony and 48 misdemeanor charges. The operation stemmed from an authorization of funds by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, aiming to enhance law enforcement services and address community quality-of-life issues.
Operation Consequences' primary focus is the subversion of violent crime and the dismantling of criminal activities, particularly those relating to gang operations and illegal firearms possession. Agencies such as the California Highway Patrol, the San Bernardino Police Department, and several others are involved in these ongoing efforts. An integral element of the program is the collaboration between the Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division, Specialized Enforcement Division, and patrol stations with state and local law enforcement entities.
The Sheriff's Department is committed to the continuation of targeted crime suppression endeavors in the High Desert and the surrounding regions of the city of San Bernardino over the coming months. Shannon D. Dicus, Sheriff-Coroner, indicated that the underlying intent of these operations is to "curb violent crime, disrupt and dismantle targeted criminal street gangs, and locate and arrest criminals who are illegally possessing, manufacturing, and trafficking firearms." With the extensive list of law enforcement involved, the operation is expected to bring substantial results to community safety in San Bernardino County.
