Authorities have charged a Bronx gang member, Paul Johnson, also known as "PJ Glizzy," with multiple offenses related to the murder of 18-year-old Jayquan McKenley. The indictment includes charges of racketeering conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, and a firearms offense. These charges stem from Johnson's alleged involvement with the Bronx-based street gang "Original Goonz" or "OGz."
The incident occurred on February 6, 2022, when McKenley was killed in a drive-by shooting in Brooklyn. Johnson was previously held by the New York City Department of Correction and has been transferred to federal custody. His case is now before U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero.
Acting U.S. Attorney Edward Y. Kim commented on the situation: “Jayquan McKenley’s death was senseless. As alleged, Paul Johnson murdered him as part of a dispute between rival gangs. We hope that today’s charges bring some measure of comfort to McKenley’s family and make clear that this Office and our law enforcement partners will never stop investigating those who commit violence on our streets.”
HSI Special Agent William S. Walker emphasized the impact of the crime: “Paul Johnson's alleged ruthless murder of Jayquan McKenley sent shockwaves through our Brooklyn neighborhoods and shone a light on the level of senseless violence committed by street gangs in New York City."
The indictment reveals that from at least 2019 through December 2024, Johnson was involved with OGz activities such as narcotics trafficking and acts of violence to fund and protect the gang's territory.
Johnson faces serious legal consequences if convicted. The charges include one count each for racketeering conspiracy, which could result in life imprisonment; murder in aid of racketeering, carrying a mandatory minimum term of life or death; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering with up to ten years' imprisonment; and firearms use linked to violent crime with potential sentences ranging from ten years to life.
Mr. Kim praised the efforts of HSI and NYPD for their investigative work on this case handled by the Violent and Organized Crime Unit under Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick R. Moroney.
It is important to note that these charges are accusations at this stage, and Johnson remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.