News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2004

Today the Drug Enforcement Administration in conjunction with the San Francisco Police Department executed three State Search Warrants and two Probation Searches in the area of the Western Addition.

Two male adults were arrested: Byron Cheeves, 22, and Donald Carter, 48, both from San Francisco. In addition, six weapons and a large amount of US Currency were seized. The weapons confiscated included two shotguns, a machine pistol (MAC 11), two semi-automatic pistols and a .38 revolver.

The DEA Metropolitan Task Force and the SFPD Gang Task Force are investigating allegations that local gangs operating in the housing projects of the Western Addition are involved in drug trafficking and have armed themselves with firearms. In the last two weeks, two persons have been murdered in shootouts between rival gangs.

The DEA and the SFPD will continue this investigation and will consult with federal prosecutors the possibility of bringing federal charges against gang members.

The DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Lawrence C. Mendosa stated: “Those weapons that were seized this morning will never be used again to terrorize the law abiding citizens that live in the housing projects of the Western Addition. The DEA and the SFPD are committed to efforts to protect the community from dangerous drugs and violent criminals.”

For further information contact Special Agent Richard Meyer, the DEA Public Information Officer, at 415-436-7900.