Thursday, October 1, 2026
A targeted gang takedown resulting in 35 arrests and the seizure of illegal weapons and drugs was effected this month by the Nassau County Police Department.
Police said 15 of those arrested are gang members affiliated with groups including the Bloods, Crips, MS-13 and a Haitian gang known as Zo Pound. All of those taken into custody had outstanding warrants in Nassau County.
Five of the 15 were arrested in Hempstead April 21. Police say the raid was part of a broader operation, with arrests beginning April 15.
During the multi-day operation, officers executed three search warrants and recovered 10 illegal firearms, along with narcotics, a drug press and other weapons, including a metal knuckle knife.
Some of the drugs seized were found in a residence where children were living, and officers delayed executing at least one warrant until the children had safely left for school.
County Executive Bruce Blakeman, joined by Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder and members of the Nassau County Legislature, said the operation involved coordinated efforts by the department’s gang unit, Bureau of Special Operations and narcotics teams.
“If you want to operate in Nassau County, we are going to come after you,” Blakeman said on April 21, when the takedown was unveiled. “We are going to come after you with every asset that we have. We will not tolerate lawlessness in our county.”
Police also highlighted several recent violent incidents tied to those arrested, including a stabbing and a separate assault that resulted in serious injury. Charges in those cases are being processed in coordination with the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office.
One individual taken into custody was described as an undocumented immigrant facing multiple felony charges and has been turned over to federal immigration authorities for deportation proceedings.
“As you can see, this is the way we answer when violence comes to our streets in Nassau County,” Ryder said. “The county executive is the first phone call I make, and from there, we get the support that we need from our legislators and our county executive to go out and answer what was brought here.”
County leaders expressed their commitment to aggressive enforcement against gang activity, citing concerns about the recruitment of minors and repeat offenses.
Law enforcement officials stated ongoing outreach efforts in local schools to help identify warning signs and prevent gang involvement.
Authorities said the county would continue to prioritize proactive policing and community education as part of its efforts to maintain public safety.
