CDCR joins other law agencies to target gang operation

January 16, 2026

Partnering with federal and regional law enforcement agencies, CDCR assisted in targeting a large-scale gang operation.

CDCR’s Office of Correctional Safety assisted the Salinas Police Department Violence Suppression Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations with a multi-year federal Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations (RICO) investigation. Called “Operation Dead End,” the investigation involved the Salinas Acosta Plaza (SAP) Norteño street gang, resulting in multiple federal indictments.

CDCR frequently partners with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to keep our communities safe.

“This large-scale operation reflects the successful collaboration among our law enforcement partners in combating the dangerous influence of criminal gangs,” said CDCR Office of Correctional Safety Chief Jim Harden.

Operation Dead End with CDCR staff and Salinas Police Department as they target a large-scale gang operation.

On Jan. 6, 2026, CDCR’s Bay Area Special Services Unit, Fugitive Apprehension Team, and Division of Adult Parole Operations agents helped execute search/arrest warrants. Served at eight different locations in Salinas and Gilroy, the warrants resulted in four arrests. Aso, one handgun and several rounds of ammunition were recovered.

In addition, CDCR’s Division of Adult Institutions Investigative Services Units conducted cell searches at several institutions.

The cell search operation found marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, SAP gang-related items, an improvised weapon, and two cell phones.

Three incarcerated individuals will ultimately be federally indicted based on this investigation.

By the Office of Public and Employee Communications

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