Philly Carjacking Crew Gets Life for Marine’s Murder

PHILADELPHIA – A five-man carjacking ring terrorizing Philadelphia is off the streets, convicted today on federal charges stemming from a brutal crime spree. The crew didn’t just steal cars; they shipped the stolen vehicles overseas, likely for resale in Africa, authorities say. Their operation, spanning at least 29 vehicle thefts beginning in February 2022, turned deadly when they targeted and murdered a former Marine.

The gang’s leader, Mikal McCracken, 24, known as “Kal,” faces life after being convicted of carjacking resulting in death and conspiracy to murder a potential witness. McCracken is also linked to 20 other armed carjackings, five involving gunfire. One victim was robbed *and* shot on two separate occasions within a single month – a chilling escalation of their violence.

Prosecutors detailed how the crew attempted to silence the witness who could have linked them to the Marine’s murder. The attempt failed, but solidified the severity of their crimes. Amin Muse, 24, Aleem Abdul-Hakim, 23, Dean Fosque, 28, and Kavon Coleman, 23, all played roles in the spree, facing lengthy federal sentences for their involvement in the carjackings and shootings. Fosque was tied to three shootings, one resulting in a victim being hit.

Sentencing dates remain pending, but with convictions secured, all five defendants are facing decades behind bars. The takedown marks a significant blow to a brazen criminal enterprise that preyed on the city’s residents.

Source: U.S. Department of Justice