Authorities make several gang arrests in Merced County

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Authorities in Merced County are wrapping up a special week-long effort to take guns from gang members.

The Merced Multi-Agency Gang Task Force arrested several people during the operation.

They say these three men are all validated gang members who were caught with weapons.

Agents say Jake Lebeaux tried to run from them and threw a pistol during the chase.

Donovan Perez is accused of having a gun under the seat of a car he was in, and a large amount of meth and marijuana in his apartment.

Task force members say Fernando Elvira had a pistol, a bulletproof vest and evidence of drug sales in his apartment.

All three are convicted felons.