Nonprofit Worker Charged With Fentanyl Dealing Near Los Angeles MacArthur Park
Christopher Johnson, a worker for the nonprofit People Assisting the Homeless, was arrested on May 5 and federally charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl after LAPD stopped his BMW near MacArthur Park.[1]
Officers reported finding fentanyl, methamphetamine, a scale, empty baggies and a large sum of cash in the vehicle.[1] Johnson told officers he works for People Assisting the Homeless, a nonprofit that distributes syringes and conducts harm-reduction work in the MacArthur Park area.[1]
On May 6, 2026, a related operation dubbed "Operation Free MacArthur Park" resulted in at least 18 arrests and the seizure of about 40 pounds of fentanyl valued at $8-10 million.[1] PATH's 2025 financial report shows 94% of its funding comes from federal and local governments, with $63 million in salaries and $10.4 million in cash on hand.
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📌 Key Facts
- On May 5, 2026, LAPD officers stopped Christopher Johnson’s BMW near MacArthur Park and reported finding fentanyl, methamphetamine, a scale, empty baggies and a large sum of cash.
- Johnson told officers he works for People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), a government-funded nonprofit that distributes syringes and conducts harm-reduction work in the MacArthur Park area.
- Johnson has been charged federally with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
- A related May 6, 2026 operation, 'Operation Free MacArthur Park,' resulted in at least 18 arrests and the seizure of about 40 pounds of fentanyl valued at $8–10 million.
- PATH’s 2025 financial report says 94% of its funding comes from federal and local governments, with $63 million in salaries and $10.4 million in cash on hand.
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