A multi-agency law enforcement crackdown along Highway 74 between Lake Elsinore and Mountain Center netted nearly three dozen arrests, as well as seizures of vehicles, illegal drugs and guns, authorities said Thursday.
“Operation Highway 74 Clean Sweep” was conducted Wednesday on the four-lane corridor that runs east- and westbound throughout the southwest and central portions of Riverside County.
Sheriff’s Sgt. Kory Murphy said deputies joined Menifee Police Department, Hemet Police Department and county Gang Task Force officers, who are drawn from the ranks of multiple agencies, to carry out traffic stops and related enforcement actions between Elsinore and the mountain communities.
A total of 28 men and four women were taken into custody for a range of alleged offenses, Murphy said, adding that the number of participating law enforcement personnel was 60.
“Two stolen vehicles and two firearms were recovered from felons,” the sergeant said. “Notably, one antique wooden musket was also recovered … in working condition. Six vehicles were towed, and an `armed and dangerous burglary suspect’ was located and taken into custody. Another suspect was arrested for methamphetamine sales.”
He said that during one patrol, deputies spotted a theft-in-progress at a grocery store and immediately nabbed the perpetrator.
Altogether, 14 of the individuals booked into correctional facilities had outstanding misdemeanor or felony arrest warrants.
“This operation was a joint effort … aimed at making Highway 74 a safer place for residents,” Murphy said.
Similar crackdowns are planned in the future.