Patel praises Illinois FBI agents for netting over 60 arrests in span of one week

FBI Director Kash Patel praised agents in Illinois on Tuesday for arresting over 60 people in the span of one week, which was part of the Justice Department's Operation Safe Christmas. 

The operation resulted in the arrests of 63 criminal offenders and the seizure of 2.5 pounds of narcotics and $15,000. 

The mission was carried out in the Southern District of Illinois and was a joint effort between the FBI, DOJ, U.S. Marshals Service, Illinois State Police, ATF Chicago and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

"Great work [FBI Springfield] and partners," Patel posted on X. "60+ arrests in just 7 days and American streets safer because of it. FBI continues to have a historic year coordinating with LEO’s across the country and cracking down on crime."

The arrests were also part of a larger nationwide law enforcement operation that was focused on combatting violent crime and narcotic distribution. 

"Operations like this reflect the strength that comes from close cooperation among law enforcement agencies," FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson said. "By working together, we are able to locate and apprehend individuals who drive violent crime into our communities. 

"The successful arrests made during this sweep represent FBI Springfield’s continued commitment to crushing violent crime and keeping our neighborhoods safe," he added.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.