Terry Douglas, RICO Conspiracy, Michigan 2023

A Detroit man has been convicted of leading a violent gang in a sprawling RICO conspiracy that involved a 2020 murder, among other crimes.

Terry Douglas, 44, of Detroit, was found guilty of RICO conspiracy, with a special finding that he was responsible for aiding and abetting the 2020 murder and participating in a conspiracy to distribute more than 280 grams of crack; of aiding and abetting the discharge of a firearm during and in relation to the 2020 murder and attempted murder; of conspiring to distribute more than 280 grams of crack cocaine; and of multiple other gun and drug charges.

The jury verdict was announced by United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison, who was joined by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Detroit Chief of Police James White.

The Almighty Vice Lords Nation (AVLN) was a sprawling criminal enterprise that committed acts of violence, drug dealing, and other crimes, across the country. The trial involved members of the Traveling Vice Lords branch of the AVLN.

Douglas is subject to a mandatory 35-year sentence and up to life in prison.

“Today, a jury delivered justice to the men responsible for a brutal murder that took place in broad daylight in a park where children play,” United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison said. “It gave closure to a mother who was viciously shot in front of her kids. And, hopefully, it sent a clear message to those who are involved in gangs that perpetuate so much violence: stop or we will stop you.”

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