A coordinated law enforcement operation targeting violent crime resulted in 40 arrests in Howard County, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
The DPS stated that the two-day “Targeted Violent Crime Operation” was carried out on April 17 and 18 with the support of several local, state, and federal authorities.
The following agencies took part: DPS’ Criminal Investigations Division, the Texas Highway Patrol, the Big Spring Police Department, the Howard County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
According to DPS, the operation was based on a proactive strategy targeted at interrupting criminal activities in high-crime areas and targeting individuals who are deemed violent criminals. Authorities stated that a specific emphasis was placed on taking firearms from individuals who are forbidden from owning them, such as convicted felons, dangerous offenders, and children.
According to officials, the 40 arrested were booked into the Howard County Jail on various charges, including false identification, possession of a controlled substance, felony and misdemeanor warrants, marijuana possession, evading arrest, and unlawful carrying of a weapon, including by a felon.
The DPS also reported that one person in the country illegally was submitted to federal immigration authorities, and one suspected gang member was identified during the operation.
No other information was shared. The investigation is underway.