Prison officials stand guard in a pavilion inside the Counter-Terrorism Confinement Centre (CECOT) mega-prison, where hundreds of members of the MS-13 and 18 Street gangs are being held, in Tecoluca, El Salvador on January 27, 2025
Tallahassee, FL – Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi today announced the arrest of a top MS-13 leader, who reportedly joined the notorious gang in middle school. The suspect, whose identity has not been released, was taken into custody following a joint investigation by local and federal authorities.
Investigation and Charges
The investigation, led by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the U.S. Department of Justice, revealed that the suspect had been actively involved in MS-13’s criminal activities, including violent crimes and gang-related offenses. The suspect is facing multiple charges, including:
– Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act violations
– Conspiracy to commit racketeering
– Violent crime charges related to gang activity
Inmates remain in a cell at the Counter-Terrorism Confinement Centre (CECOT) mega-prison, where hundreds of members of the MS-13 and 18 Street gangs are being held, in Tecoluca, El Salvador on January 27, 2025
MS-13 Involvement
According to AG Bondi, the suspect joined MS-13 in middle school and quickly rose through the ranks to become a top leader. The suspect’s involvement in the gang’s activities dates back several years, during which time MS-13 has been linked to numerous violent crimes and gang-related offenses in Florida.
AG Bondi’s Statement
“This arrest sends a strong message that we will not tolerate gang violence in our state,” said AG Bondi. “We will continue to work tirelessly to dismantle MS-13 and bring its leaders to justice. I want to thank our law enforcement partners for their hard work and dedication to keeping our communities safe.”
Background on MS-13
MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, is a transnational gang that originated in El Salvador in the 1980s. The gang has spread to the United States, with a significant presence in Florida. MS-13 is known for its brutal tactics, including murder, extortion, and human trafficking.
Law Enforcement Efforts
The arrest of this top MS-13 leader is the result of a collaborative effort between local and federal law enforcement agencies, including:
– Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
– U.S. Department of Justice
– Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
– Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
The ongoing investigation and prosecution of MS-13 members and leaders demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to disrupting and dismantling the gang’s activities in Florida.
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