Authorities Indict 25 Accused of Gun Violence in New Haven

New Haven Police Chief Otoniel Reyes and FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ari Papadacos announced the arrest of 25 people connected to gang activity on Wednesday, in part of an effort to reduce gun violence in the New Haven area.

The FBI has been working with New Haven Police and other officials to spearhead an investigation called "Operation Fantasy Island," dubbed from the name of a New Haven-area gang the 'Island Brothers,' according to Lieutenant Karl Jacobson. The ongoing investigation prompted the arrests Wednesday morning.

Reyes said the action on Wednesday was meant to send a message that police will not stand for gun violence or any violence in New Haven.

Jacobson says the charges are drug and weapon related, and no individuals have been charged with homicide.

The 25 individuals arrested are not all from Connecticut, but most are from New Haven, according to officials.

Papadacos says the investigation "reaffirms the commitment of all the departments and the FBI to securing the safety of all of the citizens of the state of Connecticut," in a statement.

The identities of the arrested individuals have not been released.

The indictments were the culmination of efforts by New Haven police, the FBI, DEA, state police and police departments from surrounding towns, such as Milford, Hamden and East Haven, Reyes said.

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