Authorities in Kansas City have conducted a significant operation targeting a violent criminal gang known as “Two, Five, Six, Three, Five, Six,” resulting in 33 arrests last week. The sweep has been described as a major blow to the gang’s operations and a crucial step in reducing violent crime in the region. Law enforcement agencies, including the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) and other partners, have worked tirelessly to investigate and apprehend individuals tied to a series of violent incidents.
Surveillance Footage Reveals Alarming Violence
One pivotal incident linked to the gang occurred at a playoff basketball game in North Kansas City in March. Surveillance footage captured a confrontation escalating into violence, with five individuals drawing firearms and discharging them. The chaos left 50 shell casings scattered at the scene, with at least two victims critically injured and requiring hospitalization.
Arrests Follow Weeks of Investigation
The Clay County Prosecutor’s Office quickly acted in response to the March shooting, announcing the arrests of two brothers, Michael and Andre Smallwood, within weeks of the incident. Last week’s sweep also netted Nathaniel Greer, a 20-year-old suspect identified as a shooter in the same basketball game. Greer was apprehended on an outstanding warrant and is due to appear in court for a bond reduction hearing.
Undercover Detective Targeted
Among those arrested were 19-year-olds Damian Carter and Sir Michael Harbin. According to court records, both individuals are accused of pointing firearms at an undercover KCPD detective, an incident that could have resulted in dire consequences. Fortunately, the detective was unharmed. Carter, who already faces a separate pending felony charge for allegedly stealing a handgun and unlawfully using a machine gun, was among the sweep’s high-priority targets.
Younger Members Involved in Firearm Theft
The operation also led to the arrests of Jermaine Love, 18, and Montell Essex Benjamin, 20, both accused of stealing firearms. Their apprehensions highlight the involvement of younger individuals in gang-related activities and firearm offenses. These arrests underscore the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in disrupting criminal networks that actively recruit and involve younger community members.
Praise for Law Enforcement Efforts
Kansas City Police Department officials have emphasized the importance of collective efforts in addressing violent crime. The KCPD worked closely with other agencies to disrupt the gang’s operations and bring individuals to justice. Officials credited their partnerships and ongoing investigations for the success of the recent sweep, which they believe will have a lasting impact on public safety in the area.
Future Proceedings
Several of the suspects arrested during the operation face imminent court dates. Greer, whose alleged involvement in the March basketball game shooting placed him on law enforcement’s radar, is scheduled to appear in court tomorrow. The legal proceedings for other individuals, including Carter, Harbin, Love, and Benjamin, are expected to follow in the coming weeks. These cases could lead to significant prison sentences, sending a strong message about the consequences of violent gang activity.
Conclusion
The arrests of 33 individuals tied to the “Two, Five, Six, Three, Five, Six” gang mark a critical step in curbing gang-related violence in Kansas City. By targeting suspects involved in shootings, firearm thefts, and other serious crimes, law enforcement agencies have demonstrated their commitment to restoring safety and disrupting organized criminal activity. As the suspects move through the legal system, authorities remain focused on preventing future violence and protecting the community from further harm.
