Crips alleged open-air crack bazaar near Petco Park crushed as 30 accused gang members and associates face federal charges
A brazen open-air crack market allegedly run by the West Coast Crips just 1.5 miles from San Diego’s Petco Park has been shut down after federal prosecutors charged 30 suspected gang members and associates in a sweeping drug crackdown.The indictment, unsealed Wednesday, accuses the gang of turning the corner of 2900 Imperial Ave.into a bustling daytime drug bazaar, where customers allegedly lined up with cash to buy crack cocaine while wholesale suppliers kept street dealers stocked.
Prosecutors say the operation funneled cocaine base across East Village, downtown, Logan Heights, Sherman Heights and other San Diego neighborhoods.Authorities estimate the operation pumped out roughly 20 pounds of cocaine every week in 2025, worth at least $550,000 on the street, with thousands of customers repeatedly purchasing crack cocaine from alleged gang members working the corner.More than 350 federal, state and local law enforcement officers fanned out across San Diego early Wednesday in a massive gang sweep, executing 21 search warrants in a coordinated takedown targeting the alleged West Coast Crips drug operation.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.
Please provide a valid email.By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Never miss a story By Wednesday afternoon, authorities had arrested 28 of the 30 defendants named in the case, while two remained on the run.The investigation began in 2024 after authorities focused on alleged West Coast Crips members suspected of running the gang-controlled drug market while committing acts of violence in the surrounding neighborhood.According to court documents, the operation functioned as both a street-level retail market and a wholesale supply point, with crack cocaine purchased there later resold across San Diego, including neighborhoods surrounding Petco Park.California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTo...