Standing next to a half dozen representatives of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, U-S Attorney McGregor Scott said the convictions of the Crips was a reaction to the killing of Merced police officer Stefan Gray last April by an alleged gang member.

"On that fateful day the Merced community and it's public safety leaders resolved firmly that enough is enough. Enough with senseless gang violence. Enough with their destroying communities with trafficking in the destructive and highly addictive drug of crack cocaine."

The gang members were convicted on trafficking and/or firearms charges.

Scott says combating street gangs is a priority throughout the Central Valley, where they have proliferated. The officers and agents involved in the effort to corral the Crips said its success stemmed from the cooperation of all organizations involved.

Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for the alleged gang member who is charged with killing officer Gray.