A series of raids conducted throughout the city last Friday by state, local and federal law enforcement officers, has led to the arrest of 16 career criminals.
All the arrests were made without incident although an FBI Swat Team was used for the arrest of Rigoberto Ramirez on Federal drug charges. He was taken into custody without a fight at 181 Nichols Street.
Of the 11 men arrested on Federal Indictment warrants, all were held without bail and are facing up to 30 years in prison as career criminals.
Most of those arrested had previous arrests for narcotic and firearm violations.
Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes said the operation was part of a continuing effort to take from the streets of Chelsea career criminals.
“The Chelsea Police Department will continue to conduct these operations that target this very dangerous element,” Kyes said.
“The Department has prioritized focused enforcement on these repeat offenders and will continue to work with our Federal and State partners in this aggressive pursuit to make Chelsea safer,” he added.
Known as Operation Crossroads, it was intended to target local gang members and career criminals conducting illegal operations in the Bellingham Square area of the city.
City Manager Jay Ash expressed his pleasure that another investigation has led to a substantial police action taking dangerous criminals off the city’s streets.
“I’m a big believer in going after the major players,” added Ash.
About 100 Federal, Chelsea and State Police officers conducted simultaneous raids early Friday morning.
Groups of law enforcement officers sought out 17 targets.
Sixteen were arrested without incident.
“We see a lot of repeat offenders and criminals who skirt the criminal justice system. Basically we went to work with the FB and state agencies targeting these people and got them off the streets,” said Chelsea Police Captain Keith Houghton.
“We urge Chelsea residents to provide information to us anonymously on our 24 hour Crimestoppers TIP line at 617-466-4880,” he said.
Chelsea resident are also urged to text their tips to tip 411 from their cell phones.
The Police Department website can be accessed at www.chelseapolice.com.
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