WPRO News and The Associated Press
Over four dozen people have been arrested by Rhode Island State Police following an investigation into statewide motorcycle gangs.
State Police said at least 49 people were arrested early Wednesday in the Woonsocket area.
“These gang members are not recreational bikers organizing local charities,” said State Police Superintendent Colonel Ann Assumpico at a late-afternoon news conference at State Police headquarters in Scituate.
“These are violent criminals who belong to some of the most sinister motorcycle gangs in this country,” she said, adding, “today’s operation is believed to be the single largest take-down in Rhode Island State Police history.”
State police said that search warrants were executed in 29 municipalities, along with four in Massachusetts.
The raids resulted in 53 illegal guns and large amounts of heroin, marijuana and cocaine seized.
According the police, the raids involved the use of explosives to breach fortified buildings and heavily-armed SWAT team members.
Most of those arrested face multiple charges, and one alleged gang leader is facing 240 charges.
