Los Angeles, California – Thirteen individuals linked to the Mexican Mafia prison gang face charges in connection to a drug smuggling scheme and violent assault carried out in Los Angeles County jails. The arrests were part of a collaborative effort between the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI’s San Gabriel Valley Safe Streets Task Force.
The investigation, initiated in February 2022, uncovered a network of high-ranking Mexican Mafia associates orchestrating drug trafficking operations and orchestrating violent attacks within the county jail system. Authorities believe the criminal activities were overseen by a Mexican Mafia member serving time in a state prison.
According to law enforcement officials, a Mexican Mafia “facilitator” relayed orders to gang members inside the jail, instructing them to assault an inmate who falsely claimed affiliation with the Mexican Mafia. The violent act was seen as a serious violation within the criminal organization, leading to the victim requiring hospitalization for injuries sustained.
In a separate incident, Mexican Mafia leaders inside the jail coordinated the distribution of smuggled narcotics to fellow inmates, generating profits for the criminal enterprise. During the investigation, authorities seized over 30 grams of heroin from an inmate in possession of drugs, resulting in further charges against the individual.
Following the arrests of several suspects, including the apprehension of two individuals on March 14 and one on March 15, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Major Crimes Bureau and the FBI continue to search for two additional defendants considered fugitives in the case. Law enforcement urges anyone with information on their whereabouts to come forward.
The joint effort between law enforcement agencies highlights the ongoing battle against organized crime and prison gangs in Los Angeles County. The successful operation is a testament to the dedication and coordination of the involved agencies in combating criminal activities both inside and outside the county jails.
Deputy-In-Charge Lou Avila and Deputy District Attorney Abbigail Briones from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office Prison Crimes Unit are leading the prosecution of the case, emphasizing the commitment to holding individuals involved in illegal activities accountable for their actions.