-from suntimes.com-

A three-month undercover investigation by Chicago police that included 25 controlled crack cocaine purchases at a Chicago Lawn neighborhood hot spot for drug activity netted 10 arrests and warrants for two others.

Operation Rock Creek was launched in the area of 63rd Street from Western Avenue to Rockwell Street on the South Side, based on the concerns of district commanders and complaints from residents, a release from News Affairs said.

As Narcotics Section Squad A-2 gathered intelligence, they found the Gangster Disciples largely controlled drug sales in the area, the release said. Drug dealers and buyers blended into the crowds of shoppers patronizing businesses along 63rd while nearby multi-unit buildings masked illegal transactions from public view.

The area was particularly violent, as well. Three of five homicides that occurred between June 2007 and June 2008 happened while the squad worked to dismantle the drug market.

Officers made 25 controlled crack cocaine buys, recovering 14.2 grams of cocaine with an estimated street value of $1,746. The team netted an additional $313 in cash and 12.2 grams of white heroin valued at about $1,830 while taking targeted offenders into custody.

Those arrested ranged in age from 19 to 44, according to the release. They were each charged with delivery of a controlled substance. Two others, 23-year-old Shante Harvey and 29-year-old Marcus Brewer, are wanted for delivery of a controlled substance.