23 arrested in Skid Row drug investigation; Watts resident among those charged
LOS ANGELES — Authorities arrested 23 people Oct. 8 in a Skid Row drug investigation that led to federal charges against 28 people, including a Watts resident, the U.S. attorney’s office said.
The criminal complaints allege drug trafficking in and around the downtown Los Angeles neighborhood, including sales of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Prosecutors said investigators searched 20 residences, most outside Skid Row, as well as several tents in the neighborhood.
Lionel Nelson, 57, of Watts, was among those arrested and charged with distribution of a controlled substance, according to the office. The charges are allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless proved guilty in court.
In its Oct. 8 announcement, the U.S. attorney’s office alleged that Nelson sold about 34 grams of fentanyl for $60 from a Mercedes-Benz parked in Skid Row on Aug. 19.
Other defendants identified in the announcement included Manuel Vaughns, 52, of West Covina, and Larry Pitre, 70, of Studio City. Six other people listed as arrested on controlled-substance distribution charges were Los Angeles residents.
Authorities reported seizing firearms, suspected methamphetamine, cocaine, cocaine base and pills, along with cash and luxury vehicles, during the investigation. The announcement did not provide a total value for the seized property.
Prosecutors alleged that some defendants used tents and makeshift structures near Fifth and Crocker streets to store and sell drugs while living elsewhere. The allegations describe those structures as drug distribution sites rather than housing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said the operation targeted people accused of exploiting vulnerable residents of Skid Row.
“We will use every lawful tool to dismantle the networks flooding Skid Row with deadly drugs,” Essayli said in the announcement.
Federal agencies and LAPD joined investigation
The investigation involved the Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, Los Angeles Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and IRS Criminal Investigation. Other federal agencies and police departments assisted, according to prosecutors.
The cases are part of the federal Homeland Security Task Force initiative. Prosecutors said each defendant would face a statutory maximum of 20 years in federal prison if convicted.
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