Elijah Williams, Attempted Murder and Murder as Part of RICO Conspiracy, New Jersey 2021

NEWARK, N.J. - A violent attack in Newark left two victims fighting for their lives, and now the alleged perpetrator is facing serious charges. Elijah Williams, 21, also known as 'Lil Smith,' appeared in court today on charges that include attempted murder and murder as part of a RICO conspiracy.

Williams is one of three defendants charged by indictment with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy in connection with a violent gang. The indictment also names Jason Franklin, 37, also known as 'Freak' and 'OG Freak,' and Tre Byrd, 20, also known as 'Bands' and 'G Bandz.'

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, Williams, Franklin, and Byrd are allegedly members and associates of the Rollin' 60s Neighborhood Crips. On September 25, 2018, Williams shot at four individuals in Newark, striking two. All of the victims survived the attack. On March 20, 2019, in Irvington, New Jersey, aided and abetted by Franklin and Byrd, Williams fatally shot another victim.

Williams was arraigned today before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton in Newark federal court. Byrd was arraigned on June 9, 2021, before Judge Wigenton. Franklin remains at large.

All of the defendants face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.

The investigation leading to the charges was conducted by special agents and task force officers of the DEA, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson in Newark. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francesca Liquori of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit.

The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Defendant: Elijah Williams, aka 'Lil Smith.'

Criminal Charges: Attempted Murder and Murder as Part of RICO Conspiracy.

City and State: Newark, New Jersey.

Exact Date: Multiple dates, including September 25, 2018, and March 20, 2019.

Sentence or Outcome: Facing a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-nj/pr/gang-members-charged-connection-murder-and-attempted-murder-part-rico-conspiracy