Cops: 3 Waukegan gang members arrested

Three reputed street gang members were arrested Wednesday as part of a monthlong weapons investigation, Waukegan police announced.

Police said they had search warrants issued by a Lake County judge when they raided three homes.

Learvin Sambrano, 31, of the 300 block of Longview Road, was charged with unlawful use of weapon by a felon and unlawful use of weapon-short barrel. Police said among the weapons found in Sambrano's home was a partially loaded assault rifle with a drum magazine capable of holding 75 rounds.

Luis Rivera, 23, of the 2400 block of Catalpa Street, was charged with unlawful use of weapon by a felon, unlawful possession of cannabis and unlawful possession of cannabis with intent to deliver. Authorities said Rivera had a police-style protective tactical vest and a ballistic helmet.

Michael Edmonds, 21, was charged with unlawful use of weapon by a felon, unlawful possession of cannabis, unlawful possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver. Cops said they found cocaine, marijuana and three firearms in Edmonds' home.

The suspects were held in the Waukegan police lockup awaiting a bond hearing in Lake County Circuit Court.

Waukegan police said a congressional gang suppression grant helped them to work the case. The department's Neighborhood Enforcement Team and Special Weapons and Tactics Team participated in the raids.