EPD Highlights Arrests Made Over Last 88 Days

February 7, 2013 - Erie Police Chief Steve Franklin says it's been a team effort as the department continues to crack down on violent crime offenders.

Operation Empty Chamber has been an ongoing operation by the Erie Police Department targeting violent crime offenders.

Since October 13th up to February 7^th, there have been 56 major crime arrests.

That's about one major crime arrest every day and a half.

Chief Franklin also noted there were 51 men arrested and 5 women arrested.

"This is an example of the battle we're facing when it comes to getting violent offenders off the streets and arresting major crime offenders," Chief Franklin said. "We are having a  major success rate, we're getting a number of people off the streets and getting them charged and it's cutting down on crime."

These alleged criminals have been charged with crimes including homicide, attempted homicide, burglary, illegal possession of firearms and aggravated assault.

Erie Mayor Joe Sinnott says he's pleased with the operation success.

"We've made this a priority to get chronic violent offenders and guns off the streets of Erie and e everyone has worked hard to that end," said Mayor Sinnott.

In this round up, there were 11 arrests involving firearm violations.