Earlier this month, District of Columbia police and federal authorities arrested dozens of individuals, and collected more than $7 million in illegal firearms and drugs.

The arrests were the result of an undercover police effort called Operation Manic Enterprises, which was said to be aimed at putting a stop to the illicit trafficking of weapons and drugs in the District of Columbia. The arrested individuals now face a number of criminal charges.

In total, police claim to have confiscated over 9 kilos of cocaine, more than a gallon of phencyclidine and 80 pounds of methamphetamine. They also said they collected over 23 pounds of heroin, marijuana and ecstasy. Police also report they confiscated 160 firearms, 29 of which were reportedly assault weapons.

Some are calling this one of the biggest crime busts ever made in the District of Columbia. According to the news source, an undercover officer bought weapons and drugs while posing as a rap artist. Although authorities are calling this a success, it is important to note each individual arrested is and will continue to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

District of Columbia residents who face criminal charges have many legal strategies available to be used in their defense. In the best possible outcomes, those individuals will be absolved of the charges and walk free. Our legal system is designed to protect the innocent. Each of the individuals charged may wish to seek out legal advice to be sure their rights are protected. Nothing is certain in a court of law until final judgment has been passed.

Source: Gant Daily, "D.C. sting nets $7 million worth of drugs, guns," Kris Alingod, Dec. 20, 2011