The Costa Mesa Police arrested 19 suspects on drug charges after squatter complaints

Over recent months, there have been numerous complaints from residents regarding potential squatters and illegal narcotics activity at a property involving three units at the 100 block of Clearbrook Lane, according to the Costa Mesa Police Department.

On Thursday, officers and detectives executed a search warrant and probation check. They contacted and arrested 17 people at the location, and all went to jail for a variety of charges that included felony & misdemeanor warrants, narcotics sales, possession of narcotics, possession of paraphernalia, parole violation, probation violation and resisting arrest.

Animal Control assisted with handling the animals found at the property. Code Enforcement responded and “red tagged” three garages. The garages were boarded up and secured pursuant to the City “red tag.”

Several hours later, an outstanding suspect wanted for narcotics sales on the search warrant arrived at the location. That man was arrested, and the vehicle was towed. While clearing the location, another two arrived to the location by car and one of them was arrested and the vehicle was impounded.

This was a complete team effort, including many team members from the police department, OC Probation, Code Enforcement, and local residents.