EDWARDSVILLE - The Cross-River Crime Task Force seized illegal firearms and narcotics and made numerous arrests during a countywide deployment Friday, July 10, 2026, in Madison County, authorities said, as officers from multiple local agencies worked alongside state and federal partners.
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Among the arrests were individuals found in possession of firearms and illegal narcotics, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, according to the task force. Officers also located and arrested several fugitives with outstanding warrants.
The coordinated enforcement effort involved officers and deputies from multiple law enforcement agencies who serve on the task force, a collaborative initiative of municipal, county, state and federal agencies that work together to combat crime throughout Madison County.
In one of the significant arrests, task force officers during a traffic stop in Madison stopped a vehicle driven by a Missouri resident who authorities said was found in possession of illegal narcotics and a loaded AR-style pistol. Charges being presented to the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office include armed violence and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.
In another traffic stop in Alton, one occupant fled on foot but was apprehended after a brief pursuit, authorities said. Another occupant, an East St. Louis resident, was found in possession of a handgun equipped with a fully automatic conversion device, according to the task force. Officers also recovered a Draco-style firearm and illegal narcotics. Charges being presented to the State’s Attorney’s Office include armed violence, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, and narcotics offenses.
Investigators believe the individuals arrested during the Alton traffic stop may be connected to other firearms-related incidents, authorities said. Those investigations remain ongoing.
Task Force Commander Marcos Pulido, chief deputy at the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, said the results reflect cooperation among participating agencies.
“These deployments continue to produce meaningful results because of the outstanding collaboration among law enforcement agencies throughout Madison County,” Pulido said. “I’m grateful for the continued support of our law enforcement leaders, the professionalism and dedication of the deputies and officers who participate in each deployment, and the assistance of our state and federal partners. Combined with the steadfast support of the Madison County State's Attorney's Office, these partnerships allow us to make a measurable impact on violent crime and enhance public safety in communities across our county.”
The task force’s deputy commanders are Capt. Adam Connor of the Granite City Police Department and Capt. Kurtis McCray of the Alton Police Department.
