Rep. Costa Salutes Kings County Law Enforcement Following Drug and Gang Bust

Sheriff applauds Costa for securing funds to help make raid possible

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jim Costa today applauded Valley law enforcement following this week's raid on the violent Nuestra Familia gang. The raid, which resulted in over 30 arrests, was one of the largest in the Valley's history. Law enforcement took down the gang's organizational structure, seizing drugs and firearms in the process.

"This week's raid is a victory for our families and local law enforcement," said Costa. "Our men and women in uniform put their lives on the line to make our communities safer. We owe them all a debt of gratitude for their service. Because of this historic coordination by local, state, and federal officials, our streets are cleaner and our neighborhoods are stronger."

Federal funds secured by Costa helped make the raid possible. Following the sweep, Kings County Sheriff Chris Jordan said, "It's only through the funding provided to us by Congressman Costa that allowed us to expand our narcotics enforcement operation and handle a case of this magnitude." (For more, click here)

In FY08, Costa delivered $611,000 for the expansion of the Kings County Narcotic and Gang Task Force. This funding strengthened law enforcement in Kings County, allowing them to better fight drugs and gangs in the Valley.

Costa expressed his appreciation in a letter to the Kings County Narcotic and Gang Task Force, which can be viewed below.


Dear Chief Shortnacy:

It is with great pride that I congratulate you and the other members of the Kings County Gang and Narcotics Task Force for your successful raid on the Nuestra Familia gang earlier this week. The magnitude of this case is certainly worthy of special recognition.

The arrests of over two dozen violent drug traffickers goes a long way towards making Kings County and the entire Valley a safer place to live. This sweep demonstrates the importance of collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in the fight against illegal narcotics trade. The work ethic and enthusiasm of each officer in your department is evident in the successful outcome of this operation.

There is no public safety issue more pressing in our Valley than the fight against violent gangs who traffic drugs through the region. Congratulations once again on your successful raid on the Nuestra Familia gang, and please let me know how I can be of assistance to your operations in the future.

Sincerly,


JIM COSTA
Member of Congress