CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Law enforcement in Albemarle County, Charlottesville, and the Virginia State Police executed multiple search warrants on Wednesday as part of a coordinated effort to address recent gun violence in the region, according to a joint release from the Albemarle County Police Department and Charlottesville Police Department. Police confirmed that the operation took place in several locations, including the 800 block of Hardy Drive, 300 block of Riverside Avenue, 1000 block of South 1st Street, the 100 block of Woodgate Court, and in Waynesboro.

According to the release, “Evidence and firearms were recovered that will be processed to determine if they are related to any of the recent gun violence events in our community.”

“Today’s joint operation between our department and the city underscores our commitment to combat gun violence in our community,” said Colonel Sean Reeves, Chief of the Albemarle County Police Department, in a prepared statement. “We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our residents, and we will continue to work tirelessly to disrupt criminal activity as these investigations continue.”

Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis emphasized the collaborative efforts among area law enforcement. “We remain committed to holding accountable those who prey on our community,” Kochis said.

WINA Morning News host Jay James discusses the operation Thursday morning with Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis: