Trafficking ring bust the biggest in Fallbrook history

When 49 individuals involved in a Fallbrook-based drug and weapons trafficking ring were arrested the week of Sept. 17 in one powerful law enforcement sweep, dubbed Operation Cruel Summer, history was made.

“This was the largest bust that focused almost exclusively on the Fallbrook area,” said Lt. Todd Richardson, commander of the Fallbrook Sheriff’s substation. “There have been some larger ones that have taken place throughout North County with targets in multiple areas. This operation focused on the Fallbrook area; even the few collateral arrests either lived in Fallbrook or had strong ties...