Attorney General Ashley Moody announced the successful prosecution of a Latin King gang member involved in a massive drug trafficking operation, resulting in a 25-year prison sentence. Johnny Cisnero was sentenced by Circuit Judge James D. Sloan for his role in trafficking dangerous drugs from the Mexican Cartel to Sur-13 gang members in Florida prisons. Attorney General Moody expressed gratitude to the Statewide Prosecutors and law enforcement partners for their efforts in bringing Cisnero to justice, stating, “A Latin King gang member involved in a massive drug ring working with the Mexican drug cartel is now sentenced to 25 years in prison.”
The investigation, conducted by various law enforcement agencies, revealed the extensive operations of the SUR-13 gang behind bars, collaborating with other gangs like MS-13 and the Latin Kings. The gang's ruling body, known as the Mesa, authorized violent acts and drug distribution within the prison system. Members communicated using contraband cellphones across different prisons in Florida, coordinating drug shipments and deliveries with external drug dealers. Cisnero was identified as one of the key drug dealers responsible for trafficking methamphetamine outside of the prison walls.
Authorities seized significant amounts of illicit substances during the investigation, including over 50 pounds of fentanyl, 380 pounds of methamphetamines, and approximately five pounds of cocaine. Cisnero was the first of 25 defendants involved in the drug ring to be sentenced, with the remaining individuals awaiting trial.
The case was prosecuted by Attorney General Moody’s Assistant Statewide Prosecutors Tim Donnelly and Agnieszka Thomas, reflecting the dedication of law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and criminal organizations. Attorney General Moody emphasized the importance of relentless efforts to intercept illegal substances and prosecute those involved in drug trafficking activities.