‘Operation Safe Coachella’ A Success, 13 Felons Arrested

More than a dozen convicted felons were arrested on Thursday after the Coachella Police Department conducted and early morning sting. It was the third installment of Operation Safe Coachella, which started last spring.

Officers knocked on 50 doors and the fruits of their labor were on display in front of the police department as one felon after another was taken to jail.

“We are out to reduce the fear of crime, the calls of service and increase the quality of life in Coachella,” said Lt. Frank Taylor, the assistant chief of the Coachella Police Department.

Neighbors say the operation was a success.

“It’s good for the city,” said Miguel Delbal, who has lived in Coachella for 28 years.

“A lot of them are playing the system and also playing the streets,” said Vilma Hurtado, a longtime Coachella resident.

In total, 13 convicts were rounded up and booked into the Indio jail, and all of them were living in Coachella. The operation checks on whether or not the felons are complying with their parole or probation.

“Several of the subjects had warrants out for them,” said Taylor.

“They’re individuals who they believe are most likely to recommit a crime,” said Eduardo Garcia, mayor of Coachella. “By this, it’s a proactive approach to addressing the crime situation.”

But, sweeps like Operation Safe Coachella aren’t cheap. That’s why Mayor Garcia is hoping that residents vote for a 5 percent user utility tax which will be on the ballot this June. Officials say it would help fund these operations. Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Indio and Palm Springs all have a similar tax.

“With the unfortunate situation with the economy, we are in need of making sure we can sustain these services and continue to conduct and collaborate in efforts like today,” said Garcia.

Residents are leery of additional taxes and whether or not investment would pay off.

“I don’t know if they’ll be able to clean it all up,” said Hurtado.

Others say it’s worth a try.

“Every time you go inside your house you’re always locking your door, why? Because everybody does that,” said Delbal. “We do that. Everybody do it because we are afraid.”

“The residents of Coachella tonight can go to bed knowing that the city is a safer place today,” said Garcia.