Cleanup exposes Fallbrook gang 'hangout'

A team of volunteers from the local trails council assisted the Sheriff’s department by lending their energy, muscle and community spirit to remove overgrown brush from a vacant lot near South Vine Street on Saturday, Dec. 18. Authorities say the property has been used by a local street gang to shield illegal activities they are involved in.

“It was a good [crime suppression] operation; a big improvement because gang members don’t want to [conduct their activities] in plain sight,” said Lt. Mike Barnett, commander of the Fallbrook Sheriff’s substation. “Their cover has now been taken away.” Ba...