Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Authorities in the Lake Tahoe region have announced the arrests of 15 individuals in California and Nevada as part of a large-scale operation targeting gang activity and illegal drug sales. The arrests stem from a multi-year, multi-agency investigation into cartel-supplied gangs operating in the area.
Operation Daisy Cutter and Operation Summer Heat
The coordinated efforts, known as Operation Daisy Cutter and Operation Summer Heat, involved 21 search and arrest warrants executed across South Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas in both states. Law enforcement agencies from federal, state, and local levels participated, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI.
Officials reported that 10 people in California and five in Nevada were arrested on Thursday, with several warrants still active to be executed in the coming weeks.
Suspects and Charges
The individuals arrested face a variety of charges, including:
- Possession of cocaine, fentanyl, and ketamine for sale
- Illegal sale of firearms
- Probation violations
The suspects include Norteño gang leaders and associates accused of trafficking drugs while attempting to recruit middle and high school students. Some are alleged to have exploited male recruits to gain access to underage girls. Other defendants include previously deported individuals, alleged members of outlaw motorcycle gangs, and suspects connected to fatal overdoses.
Officials released the identities of those arrested:
California:
- Jason Babson, 24, South Lake Tahoe
- Dakota Bertram, 29, South Lake Tahoe
- Carlos Estrada, 26, South Lake Tahoe
- Ernesto Estrada, 24, South Lake Tahoe
- Robert Brown, 29, South Lake Tahoe
- Amber Walker, 28, South Lake Tahoe
- Keala Horse-Berreman, 36, Markleeville
- Roberto Guzman, 61, South Lake Tahoe
- Josue Jacquez, 26, South Lake Tahoe
- Joshua Van Roy, 38, South Lake Tahoe
Nevada:
- Guadalupe Neri, 28, Reno
- Noah Paul, 26, Gardnerville
- Toby Paul, 20, Gardnerville
- Levi Hayes, 24, Reno
- Kayli Koffer, 24, Reno
Law Enforcement Response
District Attorney Vern Pierson praised the operation, stating:
“This operation underscores our dedication to public safety and justice, achieved through a robust and dynamic partnership with our local and federal law enforcement allies, working together to protect our community.”
The investigation demonstrates a strong commitment to dismantling criminal networks and preventing further illegal activity in the region. Authorities emphasized that continued cooperation across agencies is critical to addressing gang-related crimes and keeping the Lake Tahoe area safe for families.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Officials confirmed that additional arrest warrants remain active and will be executed in the coming weeks. The district attorney’s office said law enforcement will continue to work side by side with local, state, and federal partners to maintain safety in El Dorado County and surrounding regions.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as authorities pursue ongoing leads in the investigation.
What do you think about the Lake Tahoe gang crackdown? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
