Luis Colunga, Racketeering Conspiracy, Indiana 2020

HAMMOND, IN - In a significant blow to the Latin Dragons Nation street gang, Luis Colunga, 27, of Hobart, Indiana, was sentenced to 204 months in prison, equivalent to 17 years, following his guilty plea to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity on July 17, 2020.

Luis Colunga, a member of the Latin Dragons Nation since approximately 2006, was involved in shootings of suspected rival gang members and participated in trafficking firearms and drugs. His sentence sends a strong message that gang activity will not be tolerated, according to U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II.

The Latin Dragons Nation is a criminal street gang that originated in Chicago and spread to other areas, including the Northern District of Indiana. Members and associates of the gang allegedly engage in acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, witness tampering, and assault, to protect the gang's territory. A total of 19 members and associates have been charged with racketeering conspiracy for their participation in Latin Dragon Nation activity.

Of those charged, 13 defendants have pled guilty to the conspiracy, with 10 defendants awaiting sentencing. The case resulted from the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Chicago Police Department Criminal Enterprise Unit; and several other law enforcement agencies.

Luis Colunga's sentence is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat gang activity in the region. The prosecution of gang members and associates is a top priority for the U.S. Attorney's Office, and this case demonstrates the commitment to holding gang members accountable for their crimes.

The Latin Dragons Nation has been linked to crimes involving over 50 victims, including 15 murder victims. The gang's activities have caused significant harm to the community, and this sentence is a step towards restoring justice and safety in the affected areas.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph A. Cooley and Kevin F. Wolff, with assistance from the Criminal Division's Organized Crime and Gang Section Trial Attorney Hans Miller.

Luis Colunga's conviction and sentencing serve as a reminder that gang activity will not be tolerated and that those involved will face severe consequences. The U.S. Attorney's Office will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute gang members and associates who engage in violent and destructive behavior.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndin/pr/latin-dragon-nation-member-sentenced-17-years-prison