INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department rolled out phase two of "Operation First Step," focusing on criminals who've committed violent felonies and high-level drug offenses, Mayor Joe Hogsett announced Thursday.
Thursday morning, IMPD arrested eight people as part of the operation, with at least three who have a history of being a serious, violent felon, Chief Troy Riggs said. Those three also had possession of a gun.
"You can expect more operations of this magnitude throughout the summer and the rest of the year as we continue to make the streets of Indinapolis safer for those who live, work and raise families in our community," Hogsett said.
Watch the full press conference in the video player above.
Operation First Step began on June 19, when police arrested 26 offenders and drug dealers. It was the largest operation in IMPD history.
PREVIOUS | Indianapolis police arrest 26 offenders, drug dealers
IMPD says 12 search warrants were issued Thursday, netting a total of 24 arrests. Nine guns and approximately $9,270 in cash were seized. Police also found 5 grams of heroin, more than 10 grams of cocaine and more than 20 pounds of marijuana.
PHOTOS | 24 arrested in Operation First Step
Riggs reiterated the plea for shooting victims to cooperate with police.
He said the victim from Thursday morning's shooting was also involved in a non-fatal shooting in March. He refused to cooperate with police.
"He is now going to jail on narcotics charges," Riggs said.
Police also seized six guns Thursday, one of which was reported stolen in Indianapolis in 1969.
Riggs said the upcoming holiday weekend will be safer in Indianapolis because of the arrests.
"There is less of an opportunity that somebody's going to be selling drugs over this long weekend, and potentially being murdered as a result," Riggs said. "There are six weapons that will be off the street. Three individuals with serious violent felony convictions in their past -- with weapons today -- they are not going to be on the street in Indianapolis this weekend. That makes this weekend safer because of those arrests."
