Full Breakdown
Operation Free MacArthur Park: Federal Crackdown on an Open-Air Drug Market
5/7/2026, 6:57:11 AM
Operation Free MacArthur Park: Scope and Outcomes
On May 6 2026 federal agents, the DEA, the LAPD and other partners executed 25 arrest warrants and eight search warrants around MacArthur Park, west of downtown Los Angeles. Eighteen suspects were taken into custody, seven remain fugitives, and authorities seized roughly 19 kg (?40 lb) of fentanyl and an undisclosed amount of methamphetamine. The indictment charges all 25 defendants with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances.
Background: Open-Air Drug Market and Gang Territory
The park sits in a densely populated immigrant neighborhood marked by high poverty, homelessness and an “open-air drug market” that officials say has been dominated by fentanyl and methamphetamine. The DOJ’s press release describes the northern park as 18th Street Gang territory, the southern side as controlled by the Crazy Riders Gang, and the western perimeter as MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha) territory.
Key Figures and Alleged Suppliers
The complaint identifies Mallaly Moreno-Lopez (31) and her boyfriend Jackson Tarfur (28), both from Westmont, as primary suppliers of fentanyl and methamphetamine “on behalf of the 18th Street Gang.” Yolanda Iriarte-Avila (40) of Calabasas is alleged to supply methamphetamine to Moreno-Lopez via her boyfriend Jesus Morales-Landel (33), a street-level dealer. Law-enforcement officials also linked the drugs to the Sinaloa Cartel.
Timeline of the Investigation
- Late March 2025: Federal and local agencies conduct a brief immigration-focused operation at the park.
- ?45 days before May 6 2026: DEA and DOJ agents surveil the Alvarado corridor.
- Mar 9 – Apr 15 2026: 27 documented fentanyl/meth deals occur in the park area.
- May 6 2026 (Wednesday): Arrests and raids carried out; first court appearances scheduled for Thursday.
Data and Statistics
- Arrests: 18 (out of 25 defendants).
- Fugitives: 7.
- Fentanyl seized: ?19 kg (?40 lb).
- Drug deals documented: 27.
- Law-enforcement personnel: reports range from 200 to 300.
- Search warrants: 6 at storefronts, 2 additional at residences, total 8.
Official Statements & Responses
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli framed the raid as a permanent effort, saying the federal government “has taken over the park … to liberate the park from an open-air drug market.” Mayor Karen Bass pledged a “comprehensive strategy to restore MacArthur Park.” LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell warned that the department “will not stand idle” and that the operation will continue as needed. DEA Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis declared that “MacArthur Park belongs to the people of Los Angeles again.”
Criticism & Opposition
Local business owners reported that agents cut through storefront walls and seized merchandise unrelated to drugs. One vendor, Arrega, said, “I sell creams and medicine. They didn’t find anything. I can’t open my store until I fix my door.” Volunteer Troy Feller of the Dream Center expressed concern that the raid could further destabilize small businesses.
On-the-Ground Reports
Video showed agents in tactical gear using a chainsaw to breach a metal door on Alvarado Street. Armored vehicles and a command-post-style truck surrounded the park. Residents observed loudspeaker announcements labeling the operation a DEA narcotics warrant.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the number of personnel involved (200 vs 300) and the total fentanyl seized (19 kg vs 40 lb). The complaint does not provide concrete evidence linking the accused to specific gangs, despite prosecutors’ assertions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re here to liberate it. ... This is not a one-and-done operation. We are here and we are not leaving.” — Bill Essayli, First Assistant U.S. Attorney
- “MacArthur Park belongs to the people of Los Angeles again," said Anthony Chrysanthis, the special agent in charge with the DEA.” — Anthony Chrysanthis, DEA Special Agent in Charge
- “We will continue to aggressively pursue our comprehensive strategy to restore MacArthur Park.” — Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles
- “We have to make our city safe again for all people in Los Angeles.” — Troy Feller, Dream Center volunteer
What’s Next
Law-enforcement officials indicated that the operation will persist through upcoming high-profile events, including the 2028 Summer Olympics, to prevent drug activity from resurfacing. The 25 defendants face federal trials, with potential sentences ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment.
