Raul Ramos, Extortion, Texas 2023

Former Texas Mexican Mafia Leader Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison

A federal judge has sentenced 54-year-old Raul Ramos, aka 'Alto,' 'Naranjo,' and 'GQ,' to life in federal prison for his leadership role in a conspiracy to extort money from drug traffickers operating in their territory without permission.

The sentencing occurred in San Antonio on [current date, omit] in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas.

Ramos pleaded guilty on May 2, 2018, to one count of conspiracy to commit extortion, one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm.

As a Texas Mexican Mafia Free World General, Ramos was responsible for directing the collection of a 'drug tax' from drug dealers operating in the TMM territory. The tax was mandatory, and failure to pay resulted in violence, including robbery, beating, and 'door kicks.'

The prosecution has resulted in 37 convictions of members and associates of the Texas Mexican Mafia, with 21 receiving sentences ranging from 63 months to life in federal prison. Sixteen defendants are awaiting sentencing.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs stated, 'Dismantling violent gangs is a continuing priority for the FBI. We share a long commitment with our law enforcement partners to address the dangerous threat facing our communities.'

The investigation was conducted by the FBI, New Braunfels Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the San Antonio Police Department, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Prisons.

Ramos was ordered to pay a monetary judgment of $275,500, representing a portion of the profits derived from the criminal scheme.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtx/pr/former-texas-mexican-mafia-free-world-general-sentenced-life-federal-prison-extortion