A significant public safety initiative in Fort Worth has culminated in the arrest of over 100 individuals, the recovery of multiple firearms, and the seizure of various illegal substances. This operation, named Operation New Day, was conducted from late August to early November.
On November 9, federal authorities announced the outcomes of the operation, which involved more than 20 undercover missions. During this time, officials confiscated 35 firearms, over 100 grams of fentanyl, more than 45 kilograms of methamphetamine, and over 22 kilograms of cocaine. In total, 141 individuals have been charged with a range of offenses.
Among those charged, 51 individuals faced accusations of illegal reentry after deportation. Additionally, 45 suspects were charged with drug trafficking offenses, which included possession with intent to distribute and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Firearms-related charges were brought against 15 defendants, covering crimes such as being a felon in possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of machine guns, and possession of a firearm by an undocumented immigrant.
Furthermore, 10 individuals were charged with violations related to national defense airspace, while nine others faced charges of child exploitation and associated sex crimes, including sex trafficking of minors and production or distribution of child sexual abuse material. Seven defendants were charged with election and citizenship-related offenses, including voting unlawfully in federal elections and making false statements regarding citizenship. Two individuals were charged with document fraud, and one was accused of assaulting a federal officer.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould highlighted the operation’s impact, stating, “In two and a half months, Operation New Day took 141 criminal offenders off the streets of Fort Worth. These are drug traffickers, armed felons, people who exploit children, and others who put our neighbors at risk.” He expressed gratitude toward law enforcement partners and emphasized the ongoing commitment to community safety.
Antwoine Jones, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Dallas, remarked on the collaborative efforts, stating, “Operation New Day reflects the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to protecting communities from criminal activity.” He reaffirmed HSI’s dedication to working with various law enforcement agencies to enhance public safety in Fort Worth.
Joseph B. Tucker, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA, underscored the operation’s effectiveness, saying, “Operation New Day demonstrates what we can accomplish when federal, state, and local partners work together to take deadly drugs and illegal firearms off our streets.” He pledged to continue targeting the criminal networks behind drug trafficking to safeguard communities and save lives.
Sean Malecha, Acting U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Texas, noted the collaborative effort, asserting, “We are on the streets shoulder-to-shoulder with our federal, state, and local partners, every single day serving the citizens of Fort Worth and Tarrant County.” He warned that individuals on their radar will face justice.
