The intention of the sweep was to ensure that probationers, parolees and sex offenders were in compliance with the terms set forth in their release, said sheriff spokesman Deputy Tom MacKenzie.

The sweep targeted all of Merced County and ended with 22 arrests including three arrests for attempted murder because agents and detectives were just down the street when a shooting occurred inside the city of Merced, MacKenzie said.

Approximately 30 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies hit over 50 locations in the four day sweep that lasted nine hours each day.

“There is a large portion of the 209 population that is out of compliance or unregistered and we’re just not going to settle for that,” Sheriff Mark Pazin said. “We’re doing our best to eliminate the threat and protect the children of this county, that’s why enforcement operations like this are done on a routine basis.”