64 IE Suspects Arrested In Newsom's 'Surge Operation' To Address Crime

SAN BERNARDINO, CA — As part of Gov. Gavin Newsom's plan to "aggressively suppress" violent crime in San Bernardino County, authorities say they have arrested 64 suspects over the past two weeks.

Newsom's "surge operation" handed temporary muscle to the California Highway Patrol to add more units to clamp down on offenses like property theft and gun violence in the county.

The area is considered to be a "crime hot spot" with a violent crime rate that is nearly double the statewide average. Its homicide rate is also more than three times California's average, the state said.

The surge began two weeks ago and resulted in 64 arrests, the recovery of 11 stolen cars and the seizure of five illegal guns, Newsom's office said.

"I am encouraged by the quick progress we’ve seen, and hope the continued CHP presence and partnership here offers an improved sense of safety throughout the community," the governor said in a statement.

The CHP is providing the San Bernardino Police Department with more investigative support to reduce organized crime, gang activity and get more illegal guns off the street.

Here are some of the arrests the CHP made this month:

On Nov. 9, a suspect was arrested after a traffic stop and deemed to be a felon in possession of a loaded firearm and ammunition. That same day, the CHP collaborated with San Bernardino police to arrest a suspect involved in a stabbing.

The following day, Nov. 10, CHP assisted local police in arresting a person suspected of conducting a home invasion in Los Angeles. A pursuit for the suspect concluded in San Bernardino, where the suspect was arrested and charged with evading police, which is a felony.

“Collaborating with the San Bernardino Police Department strengthens our efforts and makes a real difference in keeping the community safe," said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. Together, we’re committed to protecting the public and ensuring a safer environment for everyone.”