Former NYPD detective Saul Arismendy De La Cruz, also known as ‘Nene’ and ‘Venom,’ has pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy in a stunning turn of events. According to the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and the FBI, De La Cruz was involved in a violent theft crew while serving as an officer with the NYPD. He is accused of accepting bribes to provide confidential police information about potential victims and ongoing investigations.
When news of an impending FBI arrest reached De La Cruz, he reportedly tipped off members of the crew, enabling them to flee. The guilty plea comes as a blow to the NYPD, which has been under scrutiny for internal corruption issues. De La Cruz is scheduled to be sentenced on January 8, 2026, by U.S. District Judge Nelson S. Román.
“The NYPD is the best police department in the world and, sadly, Saul Arismendy De La Cruz turned his back on his colleagues and the people of New York,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “We will pursue a sentence that matches the seriousness of De La Cruz’s conduct.”
FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia emphasized the severity of De La Cruz’s actions, stating, “His actions violated his oath to protect this city by enabling criminals to continue wreaking havoc on our local residents and ultimately evade arrest.”
NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch echoed these sentiments, noting that De La Cruz’s actions were an affront to the department and the public trust. “We will continue to work with our partners in the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office to root out any misconduct,” she said.
The investigation into De La Cruz’s activities also led to charges against several other defendants, including the fugitive DAGOBERTO SOTO-RAMIREZ, a/k/a “Pito,” who is alleged to have organized the violent theft crew. The crew targeted Asian American small business owners and committed numerous burglaries across the country.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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