8 gang members arrested in Atlanta

By Joel Provano

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The U.S. Marshals Service says eight of Atlanta's "most violent" gang members have been arrested in a joint operation with Atlanta police.

U.S. Marshals Service Deante White, wanted in connection with gang activity in south Atlanta.

U.S. Marshals Service Kenneth Norwood, wanted in connection with gang activity in south Atlanta.

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The operation was conducted over four weeks in October by the Marshals Service Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force Counter Gang Unit and the Atlanta Police Department Gang Unit.

Gavin Duffy, senior inspector for the Marshals Service, said Tuesday that the investigation was focused primarily on street gangs in the Cleveland Avenue, Mechanicsville and Summerhill areas of south Atlanta.

Four of the suspects were wanted on drug-related charges, three for armed robbery and one for homicide. Authorities seized four firearms, more than $10,000 in cash, two vehicles and illegal narcotics with a street value of more than $50,000, according to Duffy.

Those arrested included Phillip Tarver, wanted for the slaying of a 17-year-old in south Atlanta; Cedric Thompson, aggravated assault; Steven Collymore, armed robbery; and Leon Collins, armed robbery and carjacking, Duffy said

Two other fugitives, Deante White and Kenny Norwood, members of the so-called Raised on Cleveland street gang, are being sought on firearms and narcotics violations.

Duffy said anyone with information on White or Norwood should contact CrimeStoppers at 404-577-8477.