Nineteen individuals affiliated with the infamous Mexican Mafia prison gang have been indicted on charges of conspiring to murder a prominent social media rapper, as announced by authorities on Wednesday. This extensive operation reportedly originated in December 2022 and involved coordinated efforts spanning California’s prison system, the Los Angeles County Jail, and the streets of Southern California, all aimed at targeting the rapper due to perceived offenses against the gang.
Central to the conspiracy is a high-ranking Mexican Mafia member, referred to in the investigation as “The Elegant One,” who purportedly placed the rapper on a “green-light” list, effectively designating him for death. Officials revealed that the gang monitored the rapper’s activities through social media and attempted to invade his family home as part of their lethal plan. Despite the rapper being arrested and subsequently housed in the Los Angeles County Jail, the gang persisted in their pursuit to locate and kill him.
Prosecutors indicated that leading members of the Mexican Mafia in prisons, known as “shotcallers,” communicated with gang affiliates both inside correctional facilities and on the streets to affirm the green-light order. Enforcers within the jail, referred to as “Sureños” or “soldiers,” allegedly executed an attack against the rapper, who sustained injuries and was taken to a hospital. Although he survived, the conspiracy to track him and execute the order continued even after his release.
While the identity of the intended victim has not been publicly disclosed, it has been confirmed that he remains alive. The indictment follows a multi-agency investigation spearheaded by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Major Crimes Bureau in collaboration with the FBI’s San Gabriel Valley Safe Streets Task Force.
Of the 19 suspects charged, 18 have been apprehended, while one individual, Joshua Euan, is still at large. His photo has been released by the FBI, which is urging the public to provide any leads regarding his whereabouts. The operation to apprehend these suspects underlines the ongoing battle against organized crime and gang violence.
Officials emphasized the importance of the successful operation in disrupting a significant murder conspiracy and preventing further bloodshed. “We will not tolerate organized crime using our jails and prisons as a haven for violence,” stated District Attorney Nathan Hochman, highlighting the commitment to maintaining safety within the correctional system.
This case reflects the dangerous influence of prison gangs that extend their reach beyond prison walls. However, the collaborative efforts of law enforcement serve as a beacon of hope for communities affected by gang violence, aiming for a safer future.