Elijah Bilal, Murder During Drug Trafficking, New York 2012

Bronx drug dealer Elijah Bilal, also known as 'Karate Kid,' has been charged with the murder of 25-year-old Terrance Martin in the Bronx, New York.

According to the indictment unsealed in Manhattan federal court, Bilal shot and killed Martin on April 15, 2012, in connection with a conspiracy to distribute heroin and crack cocaine.

The NYPD arrested Bilal this morning, and he is expected to be presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Debra Freeman in federal court later today.

Bilal, 27, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of using a firearm to commit murder during a drug-trafficking crime, which carries a maximum sentence of death or life in prison, and a mandatory minimum term of five years in prison.

Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the NYPD, saying, 'As alleged, Elijah Bilal murdered Terrance Martin nine years ago in connection with his drug dealing. Now, thanks to the outstanding work of the NYPD, the defendant has been charged with this heinous crime.'

NYPD Commissioner James P. O'Neill added, 'Today's charges demonstrate that the investigative efforts of New York City law enforcement are far-reaching, precisely-focused, and patient.'

The case is being handled by the Office's Violent and Organized Crime Unit, with Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Clore in charge of the prosecution.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/bronx-drug-dealer-charged-2012-murder