SANTA CRUZ — Yesterday, the Department of Homeland Security conducted a series of raids throughout Santa Cruz County in conjunction with a five-year investigation into the dealings of a notorious street gang, Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13). 12 men were arrested, standing accused of participating in crimes such as murder, extortion, and narcotics trafficking.
The gang, which has ties to El Salvador, has been under investigation in connection to two murders over the past three years. Arrests were made all over the county and as far north as Daly City.
The 12 men were identified as: Velarmino Escobar-Ayala, Tomas Rivera, Ismael Alvarenga-Rivera, Willfredo Edgardo-Ayala, Jose David Abrego-Galdamez, Melvin Lopez, Alexander Martinez-Flores, Gerber Morales, Emilio Escobar-Albarnaga, and Josue Alcedis Escobar Cerritos. These men face numerous charges related to the two murders and several shootings in the Santa Cruz Area.
Area law enforcement seized firearms during early morning raids on 17th Avenue as well as 38th Avenue and Park Avenue. The Department of Homeland Security will provide further information as the investigation comes to a close.
