17 Alleged Gang Members Face Conspiracy, Drug Charges In The Bronx

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Nearly two dozen alleged gang members were arrested Wednesday in early morning raids by the NYPD, Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security.

The suspected gang members are from the Taylor Avenue Crew and their rival gang, the Leyland Avenue Crew, in the Bronx, 1010 WINS' Carol D'Auria reported.

A federal indictment indicates the suspects were behind multiple shootings and at least two murders in the Bronx, D'Auria reported.

U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said the violence by the alleged gang members was an attempt to protect their turf while carrying out drug deals.

The indictment said the gangs primarily sold crack-cocaine, D'Auria reported.

Seventeen people face federal conspiracy and drug trafficking charges.