U.S. Attorney Breon S. Peace | U.S. Department of Justice
U.S. Attorney Breon S. Peace | U.S. Department of Justice
A federal court in Brooklyn unsealed a 49-count superseding indictment against leaders and members of the MS-13 gang, including new charges related to murders ordered and committed by national figures within the organization. The charges involve multiple crimes, including the killings of Andy Peralta, Victor Alvarenga, Abel Mosso, and Eric Monge.
Edenilson Velasquez Larin and Hugo Diaz Amaya are among those indicted. Velasquez Larin is charged with ordering several murders, while Diaz Amaya faces racketeering conspiracy charges. Both are alleged national leaders of MS-13 cliques.
Breon Peace, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, emphasized efforts to hold MS-13 accountable: "My Office and our law enforcement partners have worked tirelessly to hold MS-13 accountable for the unspeakable harm it has done to its victims and our communities."
The indictment includes detailed allegations about violent acts carried out by MS-13 members across Queens and Long Island. FBI Assistant Director James E. Dennehy stated: "These alleged conspiracies highlight the fearmongering and callousness in which MS-13 leaders and members operate."
Special Agent William S. Walker reiterated commitment against gang violence: "Everyday, HSI New York and our law enforcement partners are utilizing every tool at our disposal to dismantle transnational gangs that jeopardize the safety of New Yorkers."
The charges include the 2016 murder of Kenny Reyes in Uniondale, New York; Eric Monge's killing in 2020; and Oswaldo Gutierrez Medrano's death in Nassau County in 2022.
According to court filings, since 2021 nearly all U.S.-based MS-13 cliques have been united under a hierarchy known as the "U.S. Program," led by senior gang leaders mostly incarcerated but allegedly still directing activities from prison.
Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder expressed gratitude for collaborative efforts: "We want to thank our partners in federal law enforcement...for this collaborative effort to bring these violent and destructive criminals to justice."
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