Washington Heights- Major Gang Crackdown in Manhattan: 24 Indicted, Six-Year Gang War Halted, Says DA Bragg

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and the NYPD revealed a sweeping gang takedown on Thursday, targeting groups believed to be responsible for nearly half of all shootings in Inwood and Washington Heights. This operation marks the end of a violent six-year conflict, officials announced.

Authorities arrested 24 individuals linked to the prolonged gang war, which reportedly accounted for numerous violent crimes in the neighborhoods within the 33rd and 34th precincts. DA Bragg emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the violence left the community under siege, with bullets regularly raining over the area.

“These gangs have inflicted devastating gun violence in Inwood and Washington Heights for years,” Bragg said during a press conference surrounded by 30 confiscated firearms, including ghost guns. “If you traffic illegal firearms or use guns to harm Manhattan residents, you will be held accountable. This behavior rips apart the fabric of our communities, and we will not stand for it.”

A History of Violence and Retaliation

According to prosecutors, 18 members of the “200/8 Block,” eight members of the “6 Block” crew, and four members of the “Own Every Dollar” (O.E.D.) crew have been indicted. These groups were allegedly involved in retaliatory violence that escalated after a 2018 murder of a 200-member by a 6 Block affiliate. This rivalry led to at least 18 shootings, resulting in seven fatalities, including four innocent bystanders.

The indictments revealed that gang members were not only behind the shootings but also trafficked illegal firearms into Manhattan to arm themselves against their rivals. The DA’s office highlighted chilling text messages exchanged among gang members, including orders to kill adversaries.

Impact on Public Safety

NYPD Chief Brian Gill underscored the significance of the operation, stating that removing these individuals from the streets would have a profound impact on reducing violent crime in Manhattan and parts of the Bronx. Chief Gill assured the public that law enforcement would remain vigilant despite concerns about a potential power vacuum.

“There’s always a hierarchy and a chance for others to step in, but this takedown sends a clear message: we are watching, and we will act decisively,” Gill said.

A Deadly Toll

Court documents detail the grim toll of the gang war, including a drive-by shooting last month in which members of 200 targeted 6 Block but mistakenly killed a 46-year-old bystander. Other incidents included a 2022 shooting where a pregnant 19-year-old woman was injured while sitting in her car.

Charges against the defendants range from second-degree conspiracy to second-degree murder and attempted murder. Prosecutors believe these arrests will finally bring peace to the affected communities, ending a reign of terror that has plagued the area for years.

“Everyone deserves to live in a safe neighborhood,” Bragg said. “We will continue to work relentlessly to protect our borough and ensure justice is served.”

A New Chapter for Washington Heights and Inwood

The operation represents a significant milestone in the fight against gun violence in Manhattan, with officials hopeful that the arrests will deter future violence and restore a sense of safety to the community.