Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu, a co-conspirator in a criminal group known as the Rip Crew, has been sentenced to 117 months in prison for his involvement in multiple offenses, including robbery, drug trafficking, and firearms violations. Rodriguez-Arvizu was found guilty after a bench trial and was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jennifer G. Zipps. The Rip Crew, based in Mexico, targeted marijuana backpackers in the desert south of Tucson, seeking to rob them of their drug loads. Rodriguez-Arvizu and his co-conspirators were arrested by United States Border Patrol agents, and forensic testing confirmed his presence at the crime scene. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office.
Title
Rip Crew Co-Conspirator Sentenced to 117 Months for Robbery, Drug Trafficking, and Firearms Offenses
Summary
A co-conspirator of a notorious criminal group known as the Rip Crew has been sentenced to 117 months in prison for his involvement in robbery, drug trafficking, and firearms offenses. The co-conspirator, Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu, was found guilty of conspiracy to commit robbery, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense. The sentencing marks a significant victory in the fight against organized crime and highlights the successful collaboration between law enforcement agencies to bring criminals to justice.
Introduction
The case of Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu and the Rip Crew has been closely followed by law enforcement agencies and the public alike. The Rip Crew is known for its involvement in violent robberies and drug trafficking activities, posing a significant threat to the safety and security of communities. The sentencing of Rodriguez-Arvizu serves as a reminder of the unwavering commitment of law enforcement in combating organized crime and protecting the well-being of citizens.
Background
The Rip Crew is a criminal group composed of individuals who target marijuana backpackers in the desert areas near Tucson, Arizona. These backpackers transport large quantities of marijuana across the border and are vulnerable to attacks by the Rip Crew, who seek to steal their drug loads. The criminal activities of the Rip Crew have led to numerous violent incidents, posing a risk to both the backpackers and law enforcement personnel.
Details of the Case
On October 24, 2015, United States Border Patrol agents encountered Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu and several other individuals who were part of the Rip Crew in the desert south of Tucson. When the Border Patrol agents arrived at the scene, Rodriguez-Arvizu fled, but forensic testing later revealed his DNA on a water jug and jacket left behind. The evidence found at the scene, including the presence of semi-automatic firearms and body armor, indicated the intentions of the Rip Crew to commit violent crimes.
Rodriguez-Arvizu was arrested by the United States Border Patrol on November 18, 2019, for his involvement in the crimes. The arrest of Rodriguez-Arvizu marked a significant breakthrough in the investigation, leading to the identification and subsequent arrest of other co-conspirators involved in the Rip Crew’s criminal activities.
Sentencing and Charges
On March 3, 2023, Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu was sentenced to 117 months in prison by United States District Court Judge Jennifer G. Zipps. Rodriguez-Arvizu was found guilty following a bench trial of one count each of conspiracy to commit robbery, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense. The sentencing reflects the severity of his crimes and the need to ensure the safety and security of the community.
Related Cases
The case of Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu is part of a broader effort by law enforcement agencies to target and dismantle the Rip Crew. Two other co-conspirators, Francisco Javier Caballero-Bustamante and Jose Carlos Lemus-Veliz, were previously arrested and have received significant prison sentences for their involvement in the Rip Crew’s activities. Caballero-Bustamante was sentenced to 98 months, while Lemus-Veliz was sentenced to 144 months in prison. These convictions underscore the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold individuals accountable for their actions and disrupt organized criminal networks.
Investigation and Arrest
The investigation into the Rip Crew and its activities was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The FBI utilized various investigative techniques and resources to identify and apprehend the members of the Rip Crew, including forensic analysis, surveillance, and coordination with other law enforcement agencies.
The arrest of Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu and his co-conspirators was the result of a collaborative effort between the FBI, United States Border Patrol, and other law enforcement agencies. This joint operation demonstrates the effectiveness of interagency cooperation in combating organized crime and bringing offenders to justice.
Co-Conspirators
Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu was not acting alone in his criminal activities as part of the Rip Crew. Francisco Javier Caballero-Bustamante and Jose Carlos Lemus-Veliz, both co-conspirators, were arrested and convicted for their involvement in the Rip Crew’s crimes. Their respective prison sentences highlight the seriousness of their actions and serve as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar criminal endeavors.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Abelardo Rodriguez-Arvizu to 117 months in prison for his participation in robbery, drug trafficking, and firearms offenses is a significant achievement for law enforcement agencies. The successful investigation and prosecution of Rodriguez-Arvizu and his co-conspirators highlight the dedication and professionalism of the individuals involved in combating organized crime. These efforts send a clear message that such criminal activities will not be tolerated, and those who engage in them will face the full weight of the law. The sentencing of Rodriguez-Arvizu serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance of law enforcement in safeguarding communities and upholding the principles of justice.