Manhattan federal court has dealt a heavy blow to organized crime with the arraignment of 25 members and associates of the notorious ‘Hooly Gang’ on charges of narcotics conspiracy. United States Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman, NYPD Commissioner James P. O’Neill, HSI Special Agent-in-Charge Angel M. Melendez, ATF Special-Agent-in-Charge Ashan M. Benedict, and DEA Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt made the joint announcement, emphasizing the collaborative effort to dismantle a criminal enterprise that had turned residential neighborhoods into a drug bazaar.
Berman described the gang’s alleged activities as establishing ‘a virtual open-air bazaar for dangerous and potentially lethal drugs,’ praising law enforcement partners for restoring safety to the community. NYPD Commissioner O’Neill echoed this sentiment, noting the gang’s operations near two playgrounds, which endangered local residents. The charges reflect a relentless pursuit of crime and violence in the city.
Melendez highlighted the gang’s disregard for law enforcement and the communities they terrorized. HSI is committed to removing such threats from the streets. Benedict emphasized the transformation of playgrounds into drug markets, thanking all partners for their efforts in upholding the rule of law. DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Hunt linked the operation to a broader initiative against gang violence, underscoring the impact on local communities.
The superseding indictment, unsealed today, stems from a joint investigation by the NYPD, HSI, DEA, and ATF that began in 2017. The Hooly Gang is accused of operating an open-air drug market and committing acts of violence to protect its territory. Their activities included selling crack, heroin, oxycodone, and marijuana.
Among those charged are [List names of defendants], aged [list ages], who face significant penalties if convicted. The charges represent a major victory in the fight against organized crime and drug trafficking in New York City.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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