69 arrests made in crackdown that targeted Mexican Mafia and Sureño gang members, FCSO says

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Law enforcement agencies across the Central Valley carried out a sweeping operation that resulted in 69 arrests and the seizure of dozens of firearms, narcotics and cash, officials said, concluding a two-month undercover investigation targeting Mexican Mafia and Sureño gang members.

Dubbed "Operation Hands Down," the coordinated effort led to the recovery of 73 firearms, 55 pounds of methamphetamine, three pounds of cocaine and 10 grams of powdered fentanyl, along with $165,000 in suspected criminal proceeds.

"If you engage in violent criminal gang activity in California, we will come for you and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law," California Attorney General Rob Bonta said.

"The people we wanted to get, we got them, and they're off the streets," Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni said.

Authorities said suspects were wanted for serious crimes ranging from shootings and robberies to sex offenses.

Among those arrested were five teenagers, including some with what officials described as significant involvement in the criminal network.

"Detectives identified gang members as young as 14 years old, possessing, buying, selling and trading firearms across multiple counties," Zanoni said.

Investigators also displayed weapons seized during the operation, noting that many were stolen, illegally obtained or untraceable "ghost guns."

Officials said the operation dismantled key elements of gang leadership.

Among those arrested was Stephan Coronado, identified as a secretary for the Mexican Mafia.

Authorities allege Coronado collected gang taxes from inmates and coordinated criminal activity both inside and outside jail.

"That is how they manipulate, that is how they coerce people. If you don't pay, something is going to happen to you," Zanoni said. "He was a controller; he was a dealer. He was handling it for them."

During the investigation, detectives also solved a 2023 murder in Sanger, leading to the arrest of Edwardo Garcia, and linked suspects to other violent crimes.

"A gang-related shooting in the City of Sanger, an armed robbery of a field worker in Selma and the robbery of a juvenile victim in Fresno," Zanoni said.

Authorities estimate the operation prevented at least seven planned violent attacks, including a possible school shooting.

Officials said one young suspect allegedly brought a gun to a school in Kingsburg with plans to target a rival gang member.

All suspects are expected to appear in court as prosecutors move forward with the cases.

"We're not just arresting individuals; we're disrupting entire criminal organizations," Bonta said. "Thanks to the hard work of our DOJ agents and law enforcement partners, families in the Central Valley can rest a little easier tonight."

Criminal charges are still being reviewed. The DA's office says they filed 15 cases already, ranging in age from 15 to 42.

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