Multi-Agency Operation Results In Desert Hot Springs Arrests

A multi-agency gang sweep that began early Thursday morning resulted in 15 arrests, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

“The searches and arrests took place in the unincorporated areas of Desert Hot Springs, Banning, Cathedral City, Palm Springs,” said Sgt. Joe Borja, from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

The operation began at 4 a.m. when law enforcement agencies went to several locations to conduct parole and probation compliance checks, according to Sgt. Borja.

Police banged on Christinea Herrera’s front door looking for an alleged gang member.

“I was nervous,” she said. “But, as soon as I realized what they were looking for, it was a blessing.”

Herrera said the suspect was a previous tenant of her home before she moved in two months ago.

Sheriff’s Department helicopters hovered over each location as deputies and police officers from two dozen police organizations located the homes and people they were looking for on the ground.

Federal, state and county agencies were involved and arrests were made, he said.

In the end, 12 men and 3 women were taken into custody on a variety of charges, including gun violations, outstanding warrants, narcotics violations and others.

They will be booked at Indio jail.

Borja said the sweep’s planning began five weeks ago after the First Community Baptist Church was vandalized and someone shot a rival gang member outside.

“When the incidents happened, the chief of police came to the church and made a commitment that he’d address this issue,” said church member Michael Shaw. “He kept his promise. We appreciate it.”