WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. -- Local law enforcement agencies have arrested 16 criminals, including several known gang members, in an effort to clean up Whatcom County ahead of the Northwest Washington Fair.

The Sheriff's Office led an operation dubbed "Fair Game" on Thursday to round up gang members and other dangerous offenders with outstanding warrants.

Eight of those arrested were confirmed or suspected gang members or associates. Sheriff Bill Elfo says they don't want to let gangs take root in Whatcom County.



He says the Sheriff's Office has made eradicating gangs one of its top priorities.

Whatcom County has more than 400 known gang members.

Northwest Washington Fair organizers this year are refusing entrance to anyone that police identify as a gang member.