Mafia ‘Secretary’ Nabbed in Violent Robbery Plot

La Verne resident Kelly Deshannon is facing a lengthy federal prison sentence after a jury found her guilty of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering (VICAR), and using a firearm during a crime of violence. The conviction stems from her role as a key facilitator for imprisoned Mexican Mafia “shot caller” Seferino Gonzalez, who directed criminal activity from behind bars.

Prosecutors laid out a case showing Deshannon wasn’t just answering phones. She actively participated in a brazen attempted armed robbery that left one victim shot but alive. The feds proved she provided crucial intelligence – identifying targets and even pinpointing a specific victim – and directly aided the shooter, bringing them to the scene of the crime. This wasn’t a passive role; it was orchestration.

Gonzalez, operating from his cell, maintained iron-fisted control over Latino gangs in Pomona. Deshannon served as his crucial link to the streets, managing drug sales, and collecting “taxes” – extortion money – from other criminals operating within Gonzalez’s territory. Witnesses testified to her direct involvement in these illicit transactions, painting a picture of a cold and calculating operative.

The attempted robbery centered around a Mercedes-Benz SUV. Deshannon, according to trial evidence, scouted the vehicle and its owner, providing detailed information to Gonzalez and the robbery crew. She then allegedly accompanied the group to the victim’s residence, positively identifying the target before the shooting occurred. The level of planning and Deshannon’s direct participation were key to securing the guilty verdict.

Federal prosecutors presented compelling testimony and evidence linking Deshannon to not only the violent robbery but also the broader criminal enterprise. This included details of drug deals brokered by Deshannon and documentation of the extortion racket she helped manage. The feds built a solid case demonstrating her integral role in sustaining Gonzalez’s criminal power.

Deshannon now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in federal prison, with the potential for up to 20 years behind bars. Sentencing is scheduled for a later date. Michael Lerma, another figure indicted in connection with the Mexican Mafia cell, is still awaiting trial on RICO conspiracy and related charges. The FBI’s San Gabriel Valley Safe Streets Task Force, along with the Covina Police Department, led the investigation.