Executive Summary
- A three-month, multi-agency investigation named ‘Operation Summer Heat’ resulted in 114 arrests in the Las Vegas area.
- The operation was part of a nationwide FBI initiative that led to 8,000 arrests across the U.S.
- Local authorities recovered 16 firearms and conducted 14 drug seizures during the crackdown.
- Among those arrested was a fugitive from Washington accused of shooting at deputies with an AR-15.
- The effort involved collaboration between the FBI, Henderson Police, North Las Vegas Police, and LVMPD.
LAS VEGAS — A three-month federal, state, and local law enforcement initiative dubbed “Operation Summer Heat” has led to the arrest of 114 individuals accused of violent crimes in the Las Vegas area, the FBI announced. The operation was part of a nationwide crackdown that resulted in approximately 8,000 arrests across the country.
The joint effort involved the FBI working alongside the Henderson Police Department, North Las Vegas Police Department, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and probation officers. “It was Director Patel’s initiative to focus on crushing violent crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Delzotto of the FBI Las Vegas Division, referring to the directive from FBI Director Kash Patel.
During the operation in Las Vegas, authorities recovered 16 firearms and conducted 14 drug seizures. Delzotto noted that the local results were significant, stating, “I would say we are doing a better job than any other metropolitan area in the country.”
Among those apprehended was a fugitive from Washington state who had allegedly fled to Nevada after shooting at deputy sheriffs with an AR-15. “Our CAT team picked him up. So when we’re talking violent criminals, I’m talking very violent criminals,” Delzotto commented, highlighting the serious nature of the cases handled.
To mitigate risks during arrests, agents utilized specialized equipment, including a device called the Grappler, which is designed to safely disable a fugitive’s vehicle. Delzotto explained the importance of such tools, stating, “You are dealing with violent criminals and you don’t want to put our law enforcement officers at risk. We also don’t want to put the public at risk.”
Inter-Agency Coordination
Delzotto emphasized the role of a fusion center at LVMPD in coordinating efforts and preventing investigative conflicts among the various participating agencies. Information flows into this central hub, allowing for effective deconfliction on cases. While federal investigations remain under the FBI’s purview, the center ensures seamless collaboration.
The focus on violent crime will continue beyond this specific operation, according to Delzotto, indicating an ongoing commitment to the initiative’s goals throughout the year. It is important to note that all individuals arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
