MILWAUKEE — Federal authorities carried out a massive gang takedown in Milwaukee and Racine on Oct. 22, arresting 22 suspects in what the FBI Milwaukee called a “violent gang takedown” under Operation Chalkline.
What happened?
The operation involved 14 SWAT teams and 24 federal search warrants targeting a violent street gang connected to a major international cartel. Authorities seized:
- 4+ kilograms of cocaine
- 260 grams of fentanyl
- 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine
- 6 pounds of marijuana
- 23 firearms
- Three vehicles
Who led the investigation?
The investigation was spearheaded by a Mount Pleasant Police Department Task Force Officer as part of the FBI Milwaukee Area Safe Streets Task Force. The task force also includes officers from Caledonia, Racine, and other local agencies. Additional support came from Cudahy PD, Milwaukee County Sheriff, Oak Creek PD, West Allis PD, Wisconsin DOJ, ATF, DEA, HSI, and U.S. Marshals.
FBI statement
FBI Milwaukee Director Kash Patel called the operation one of the “most significant violent gang takedowns” in the area. The FBI said the arrests were part of a multi-year investigation into the gang’s criminal enterprise, which involved drug trafficking, firearms violations, and other violent crimes.
“FBI Milwaukee continues to prioritize crushing violent crime together with our law enforcement partners to ensure public safety and security in Milwaukee, Racine, and throughout Wisconsin,” the agency said.
Why it matters
The bust disrupts a gang network directly linked to an international cartel, preventing further drug trafficking and violent activity in southeastern Wisconsin.
