By Associated Press
Saturday, October 9, 2010
SPRINGFIELD — Police in Springfield arrested 50 people in less than 24 hours in a crackdown in high crime areas dubbed “Operation Blue Heat.”
Police Sgt. John Delaney told The Republican of Springfield that so many people were arrested that police ran out of jail cells. He said there were about 20 extra officers on the streets between Friday morning and Saturday morning.
Delaney said police were targeting gang members, drug dealers, the sex trade and drag racers.
Police said 22 people were arrested for either prostitution or trying to buy sex from undercover female officers.
Police also made several arrests for marijuana possession with intent to distribute.
Delaney said police are planning similar crime crackdowns for the coming months.
