A coordinated law enforcement operation has led to the arrest of three individuals and the recovery of multiple firearms, including a stolen weapon, authorities announced.

On Tuesday, March 4, officers from the South Bend Police Department, U.S. Marshals, and the St. Joseph County Police Department Warrants Division executed an operation at a residence in the 800 block of W. Douglas Road in Mishawaka. The action stemmed from an ongoing investigation involving a wanted fugitive.

During the operation, police arrested 22-year-olds Ernesto Santiago and Darvel Grady, both of whom had outstanding warrants. A subsequent investigation by the South Bend Police Department’s Strategic Focus Unit led to a search warrant for the residence, resulting in the seizure of seven firearms-one of which had been reported stolen.

Both Santiago and Grady now face additional charges of Unlawful Carrying of a Handgun (prior felony conviction).

A third individual, 21-year-old Jeremid Santiago, was also arrested at the scene and charged with Unlawful Carrying of a Handgun (prior felony conviction).

Authorities credited the successful operation to the collaborative efforts of the U.S. Marshals and the St. Joseph County Police Warrants Division.

Residents are encouraged to report suspected criminal activity by contacting Michiana Crime Stoppers at 574-288-STOP.