An overnight neighborhood safety sweep in Chula Vista targeting repeat gang and weapon violations offenders yielded arrests and the seizure of firearms, Oxycodone pills and drug paraphernalia.
The sweep was conducted by officers from the Chula Vista Police Department, San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, San Diego County Probation and U.S. Border Patrol. Officers conducted compliance checks on known weapon and gang offenders who are on probation.
Authorities say the first compliance check in the 1100 block of Industrial Avenue netted two arrests for weapons and drug violations.
Officers seized a short-barreled shotgun, five rifles, Oxycodone pills and methamphetamine pipes discovered in a suspect’s workshop in the back of his home.
Police say the suspect – identified as Chula Vista resident John Christie, 63 – also appeared to have been allegedly manufacturing suppressors for the rifles. Police arrested Christie at the scene.
Christie’s acquaintance, Robert Wooster, 53, was also arrested. He was wanted for a misdemeanor drug court violation. Both suspects will be booked into county jail.
The safety sweep was funded with federal funds associated with Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Chula Vista Police Chief David Bejarano said the operation was a success in its mission to make local streets safer.
"Tonight's operation is an important means to take weapons off the streets and ensure known criminals are complying with the terms of their probation or parole. When we partner with allied law enforcement agencies, the public wins because we can be more efficient and effective,” said Bejarano.
Photo Credit: Chula Vista Police Department