Source: US FBI
MIAMI—Over Memorial Day weekend, FBI Miami joined the Miami Beach Police Department for a series of drug, firearm, and violent crime arrests and investigations. Called Operation Viper and Operation Starlight, the FBI deployed a team of agents, intelligence analysts and professional staff who specialize in violent crime investigations from May 23-25.
The operation yielded the following enforcement outcomes:
- Friday: 4 firearms investigations and 2 drug related arrests.
- Saturday: 8 firearms investigations, 2 drug related arrests and 1 armed home invasion robbery investigation.
- Sunday: 5 firearms investigations, 4 firearms related arrests and 1 arrest for a stolen vehicle.
These investigations remain ongoing, and some may result in federal charges. As such, the FBI cannot comment further about their status at this time.
“Criminals who commit violent crimes, robberies, and conduct drug trafficking prey on our communities and keep our citizens from enjoying their time off during holiday weekends like Memorial Day,” said Ryan James, assistant special Agent in charge, FBI Miami. “Operation Viper demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to support local law enforcement in their efforts to eliminate violent crime in their neighborhoods.”
“I am extremely proud of the outstanding work carried out by our Street Crimes Section in partnership with FBI Miami, through the implementation of Operation Starlight and Viper.” shared Chief Wayne Jones. “Their coordinated efforts led to the apprehension of violent offenders, the recovery of multiple firearms, and the removal of dangerous narcotics from our streets during this Memorial Day weekend. I’d like to thank our federal law enforcement partners for their steadfast support in keeping our community safe.”
The Miami Beach Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, the FBI Miami’s Violent Crime and Fugitive Task Force, and the FBI continue these investigations.
Learn more about the FBI’s Strategy: www.FBI.gov/about/ mission.