Siaki Tavale, Murder Squad Racketeering, California 2020

In a shocking turn of events, six members of a Salinas-based 'Murder Squad' have been indicted on federal racketeering charges. The indictment, unsealed on October 15, 2020, alleges that the defendants were part of a violent hit crew that orchestrated seven shootings, killing eight people and injuring several others.

The defendants, identified as Siaki Tavale, 24; Andrew Alvarado, 29; John Magat, 33; Anthony Valdez, 23; Mark Anthony Garcia, 29; and Anelu Tavale, 24, are charged with racketeering conspiracy, use of a firearm causing murder, and related crimes.

According to the indictment, the 'Murder Squad' used multi-vehicle caravans to hunt and kill rival Sureno street gang members, or those they perceived to be Surenos, in the neighborhoods of Salinas, California. The indictment describes how the group identified victims by characteristics they associated with rival Surenos, such as Hispanic males, persons with shaved heads, and/or persons wearing blue.

U.S. Attorney David L. Anderson stated, 'The indictment alleges a pattern of horrific violence. This violence destroys lives. This violence holds our community hostage.' He emphasized the importance of professional law enforcement in protecting the community.

Special Agent in Charge Tatum King added, 'The family and friends of the men murdered by this heinous criminal enterprise have suffered profound loss.' He praised the collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies in bringing the defendants to justice.

The indictment explains that the 'Murder Squad' coordinated and executed missions to hunt and kill rival Sureno street gang members, or those they perceived to be Surenos, in the neighborhoods of Salinas, California. The indictment describes the group's use of multi-vehicle caravans and their tactics in identifying and killing victims.

The case is a result of a collaborative effort between the U.S. Attorney's Office, the FBI, the Salinas Police Department, and the Monterey County District Attorney's Office. The defendants are currently in custody, awaiting trial.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndca/pr/six-members-salinas-based-murder-squad-indicted-federal-racketeering-charges