Lake Tahoe Gang Crackdown: 15 Arrested Across California and Nevada in Multi-State Drug Investigation
LAKE TAHOE, CALIFORNIA/NEVADA – Authorities announced the arrests of 15 individuals across California and Nevada as part of a sweeping crackdown on gang activity and drug trafficking in the Lake Tahoe region.
Multi-Agency Operations
The coordinated effort, dubbed Operation Daisy Cutter and Operation Summer Heat, involved 21 search and arrest warrants executed in South Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas.
Federal, state, and local law enforcement partners participated, including the ATF, DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI.
Officials reported that 10 people in California and five in Nevada were arrested on Thursday, with several additional warrants still pending.
Suspects and Charges
The suspects face a range of charges, including:
- Possession of cocaine, fentanyl, and ketamine for sale
- Illegal firearms sales
- Probation violations
Authorities say many of those arrested were Norteño gang leaders and associates, accused of trafficking drugs and attempting to recruit middle and high school students.
Some suspects allegedly exploited young male recruits to access underage girls, while others were connected to outlaw motorcycle gangs, previous deportations, and even fatal overdose cases.
Names of Those Arrested
California (South Lake Tahoe/Markleeville):
- Jason Babson, 24
- Dakota Bertram, 29
- Carlos Estrada, 26
- Ernesto Estrada, 24
- Robert Brown, 29
- Amber Walker, 28
- Keala Horse-Berreman, 36
- Roberto Guzman, 61
- Josue Jacquez, 26
- Joshua Van Roy, 38
Nevada (Reno/Gardnerville):
- Guadalupe Neri, 28
- Noah Paul, 26
- Toby Paul, 20
- Levi Hayes, 24
- Kayli Koffer, 24
Officials Praise Cooperation
District Attorney Vern Pierson praised the coordinated operation:
“This operation underscores our dedication to public safety and justice, achieved through a robust and dynamic partnership with our local and federal law enforcement allies, working together to protect our community.”
Authorities emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to dismantle gang networks and keep the Lake Tahoe region safe.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials confirmed that additional arrest warrants remain active and will be executed in the coming weeks. Law enforcement agencies pledged to continue working with local communities and federal partners to address ongoing gang-related crime in the region.
Residents have been urged to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity while the investigation continues.
Do you believe these multi-state operations will significantly reduce gang influence in the Lake Tahoe region? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
