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MS-13 Leaders Convicted of Racketeering in New Jersey
Eight members of the New Jersey branch of the international street gang ‘La Mara Salvatrucha,’ or ‘MS-13,’ have been convicted of racketeering-related crimes, including multiple acts of violence, according to U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman and Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell. The defendants, who include the gang’s founding member, were found guilty following a 16-week trial before U.S. District Judge Stanley R. Chesler in Newark federal court.
The jury deliberated for approximately four days before returning the verdicts. Sentencing is set for Sept. 7, 2016. The defendants were convicted of various charges, including murder, attempted murder, and extortion. The convictions are a significant blow to the MS-13 gang, which has been linked to numerous violent crimes in the state.
The defendants, who include Santos Reyes-Villatoro, a/k/a ‘Mousey,’ 43, of Bound Brook, New Jersey; Mario Oliva, a/k/a ‘Zorro,’ 29, of Plainfield, New Jersey; Roberto Contreras, a/k/a ‘Demonio,’ 27, of Bound Brook; Julian Moz-Aguilar, a/k/a ‘Humilde,’ 28, of Plainfield; Hugo Palencia, a/k/a ‘Taliban,’ 24, of Plainfield; Jose Garcia, a/k/a ‘Chucky’ and ‘Diabolico,’ 24, of Plainfield; Esau Ramirez, a/k/a ‘Panda,’ 25, of Plainfield; and Cruz Flores, a/k/a ‘Bruja,’ 30, of Bound Brook, were charged with racketeering conspiracy, murder, attempted murder, and extortion.
The evidence presented at trial showed that the defendants were involved in numerous violent crimes, including the murder of five people in furtherance of MS-13’s objectives. The defendants also used violence and intimidation to extort money from rival gang members and civilians.
The convictions are a result of a multi-year investigation by federal and state law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, the Newark Police Department, and the New Jersey State Police. The defendants are facing significant prison time, with some facing up to life in prison.
The case is a significant victory for law enforcement and a major blow to the MS-13 gang. The convictions demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement to targeting and dismantling violent gangs that threaten the safety and security of our communities.
Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Category: Violent Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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