A targeted surveillance operation requested by Manteca Police Chief Jodie Estarziau to address citizen concerns about drug use and sales at Library Park resulted in three arrests Thursday.
Detectives from the Manteca Police Department Gang Suppression Unit, Street Crimes Unit, and Investigations Unit conducted a surveillance operation at Library Park. The focus of the operation was to address reports of ongoing issues of drug use and sales in the area of the park. Over the past several months, numerous citizens have called the Manteca Police Department with concerns regarding the quality of life issues at the park due to the illegal activity.
During the course of the operation, detectives observed Clarence Murray, 49 of Manteca, sell narcotics to another subject at the park. Murray was detained by police units and taken into custody for narcotics sales. Larry James, 68 of Manteca, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance. Brandon Villanueva, 46 of Manteca, was arrested for outstanding warrants.
The Manteca Police Department, in cooperation with area businesses, plans to conduct additional operations in the future.