Helena-West Helena, Ark. (AP) - Residents in Helena-West Helena knew
something was up as drug dealing and violent crimes crept into
their isolated Mississippi River city.
But few bothered calling for help as gunfire rang out because of mistrust toward police.
Then, hundreds of law enforcement officers swarmed the Arkansas
city last week as part of a four-year federal investigation dubbed
"Operation Delta Blues."
They arrested dozens of people, including five law enforcement
officers accused of taking bribes to ignore and sometimes help drug
traffickers.
Since the arrests, people in Helena-West Helena say the gunfire
has quieted down. But some wonder if they're only seeing a short
break from the noise and violence.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)