​For release on February 17, 2016

CONTACT:
Edward Liang, Deputy District Attorney
Narcotics Unit
(408) 808-3724   THIRTY-THREE FACE FELONY DRUG CHARGES AFTER OPERATION “BUYOUT” CRACKDOWN   Thirty-three defendants face or have been convicted of drug sale felonies in the wake of a year-long downtown San Jose Police operation nicknamed “Buyout.”
The buyout in question targeted drug dealers operating in St. James and Caesar Chavez parks, as well as Fountain Alley, all local hot spots for illegal drug activity.
Some of the defendants have already pleaded to charges. Some of the cases are still pending.
“We thank the San Jose police for their undying commitment to keep our downtown a vibrant place to live and work,” prosecutor Edward Liang said.
Said Acting Chief of Police Eddie Garcia: “The prevalence of drug dealers are precursors that can lead to more serious crimes. We cannot allow this type of activity to occur undeterred in our downtown.” 
The operation was launched about a year ago by the police department’s Downtown Services Unit, part of a concerted effort to combat the long-standing drug activity in downtown San Jose. Undercover officers purchased narcotics such as marijuana, methamphetamines, and crack cocaine.
The defendants range in age from 20s to 50s. One juvenile was also arrested.   # # #