Big Money Team Leader Convicted in Miami Drug Ring

MIAMI – In a pivotal victory for law enforcement, the leader of Big Money Team (BMT) and three other gang members were convicted on multiple counts following a month-long trial. The defendants, Maurin Chacon, Christopher Altamirano, Rodolfo Portela, and James Dixon, all from Miami, Florida, face decades in federal prison for their roles in a sprawling drug conspiracy.

Chacon, also known as ‘Tiny,’ ‘Peludo,’ and ‘Yung Patron,’ was found guilty of conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute. Altamirano, a/k/a ‘Tango’ or ‘Peter Baitz,’ was convicted alongside Chacon for possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking or violent crime. Portela, also known as ‘Papo L. Desperado,’ and Dixon, a/k/a ‘Smoke,’ were charged with similar offenses.

The charges stem from an investigation that began in 2013 and culminated in a second superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury on October 3, 2014. During the trial, evidence was presented of BMT’s daily drug sales, violent acts for gang status, and a brazen attempt to obstruct law enforcement.

“The Big Money Team’s leadership is now paying the price for its crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer. “We will not tolerate the use of violence and intimidation in our neighborhoods.” ATF Special Agent in Charge Hugo Barrera echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that led to the convictions.

Miami Police Department Chief Rodolfo Llanes praised the partnership between local agencies and the community for their role in dismantling the gang. “We will continue working together to ensure Miami is a safe city for all,” he said.