LOS ANGELES
Federal authorities announced the arrests of 18 defendants in a sweeping drug-trafficking crackdown targeting fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution in and around MacArthur Park, a neighborhood long plagued by gang violence, narcotics sales, homelessness, and addiction.
The federal criminal complaint charges 25 defendants with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. Seven suspects remain fugitives, authorities said.
Investigators seized approximately 18 kilograms — roughly 40 pounds — of fentanyl from a residence in Calabasas during the operation.
Quick Facts
- 18 defendants arrested in federal operation
- 25 total defendants charged
- 7 suspects remain fugitives
- 40 pounds of fentanyl seized
- Investigation targeted fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficking
- Authorities allege ties to the 18th Street Gang, MS-13, and Crazy Riders Gang
Authorities described the area surrounding MacArthur Park as heavily impacted by poverty, homelessness, narcotics trafficking, and gang activity.
The neighborhood is divided among rival gangs, including the 18th Street Gang north of the park, the Crazy Riders Gang south of Wilshire Boulevard, and territory associated with Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13, west of the park.
Federal investigators identified Mallaly Moreno-Lopez, 31, and Jackson Tarfur, 28, both from South Los Angeles, as major alleged suppliers of fentanyl powder and methamphetamine distributed in the MacArthur Park area.
Authorities allege the pair delivered narcotics to stash locations near the Alvarado Corridor for redistribution to street-level dealers.
Investigators also identified Yolanda Iriarte-Avila, 40, of Calabasas, as an alleged methamphetamine supplier connected to street-level trafficking operations in the area.
According to the complaint affidavit, investigators documented 27 separate narcotics transactions involving fentanyl and methamphetamine between March 9 and April 15 in and around MacArthur Park.
If convicted, Moreno-Lopez, Tarfur, Iriarte-Avila, and Jesus Morales-Landel could face up life imprisonment. Other defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison.
Authorities emphasized that a criminal complaint contains allegations only, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Law Enforcement Agencies Involved
- Drug Enforcement Administration Los Angeles Field Division
- Southern California Drug Task Force (SCDTF)
- Los Angeles High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Program
- Los Angeles Police Department