News Summary
Federal authorities have arrested 22 individuals linked to a violent gang through Operation Chalkline in Milwaukee. This multi-agency operation aimed to disrupt gang activities contributing to ongoing violence in the region. The investigation resulted in 24 search warrants and the seizure of illegal narcotics and firearms. The success of this operation marks a significant step towards improving public safety in Milwaukee and Racine.
Milwaukee — Federal authorities announced on Wednesday, October 22, that a major gang takedown, dubbed Operation Chalkline, resulted in the arrests of 22 individuals linked to a violent gang with direct ties to a significant international cartel. The operation aimed at disrupting gang activities that have plagued Milwaukee and Racine over the years.
Spanning multiple years, the investigation culminated in the execution of 24 federal search warrants across various locations. The effort saw collaboration from the FBI Milwaukee Division alongside task force officers, with 14 SWAT teams providing critical support during the operation.
The dedicated law enforcement efforts were spearheaded by a task force officer from the Mount Pleasant Police Department, showcasing a partnership that included several agencies such as:
- Caledonia Police Department
- Mount Pleasant Police Department
- Racine County Sheriff’s Office
- Racine Police Department
- Milwaukee Police Department
- Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office
- Cudahy Police Department
- Oak Creek Police Department
- West Allis Police Department
- Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation
- Wisconsin State Patrol
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
- U.S. Marshals Service
As a result of the operation, authorities seized a substantial amount of illegal narcotics and firearms, including:
- 4 kilograms of cocaine
- 260 grams of fentanyl
- 1.5 pounds of methamphetamines
- 6 pounds of marijuana
- 23 firearms
- 3 vehicles
The success of Operation Chalkline has been hailed as one of the most significant achievements in tackling violent gang activities in the region. The culmination of these efforts aligns with the FBI Milwaukee’s ongoing priority to reduce violent crime in Milwaukee, Racine, and throughout Wisconsin.
Public safety remains a cornerstone of these operations, and local agencies urge community members to remain vigilant. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to their local police departments or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Background on violent gang activity in Milwaukee and Racine reveals longstanding challenges faced by law enforcement, with gangs often linked to larger criminal enterprises. Operations like Chalkline serve as crucial steps toward addressing these issues and enhancing community security.
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Additional Resources
- WISN: FBI Milwaukee 22 Arrested in Operation Chalkline Gang Takedown
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee
- Fox 6 Now: FBI Arrests 22 in Milwaukee Gang Sweep
- Google Search: FBI Operation Chalkline
- Fox 11: FBI Investigation into Milwaukee Gang Nets 22 Arrests
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Milwaukee
- Channel 3000: FBI Arrests 22 in Milwaukee Gang Investigation
- Google News: Milwaukee FBI Gang Takedown
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
