A significant indictment has been unsealed in the Southern District of Texas, targeting members of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang and its affiliate, the Mascareros Motorcycle Club. The 22-count indictment accuses 14 individuals of engaging in a criminal enterprise involved in violent activities around Houston.
The charges include conspiracy to commit racketeering, murder, attempted murder, and assault. The indictment describes the Bandidos as an "outlaw" organization with thousands of members across the United States and internationally.
U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei emphasized public safety concerns: “The indictment here not only alleges shocking crimes of violence but also alleges that these offenses were committed openly and wantonly.”
Antoinette T. Bacon from the Justice Department's Criminal Division stated, “Today’s indictment is an important step in eliminating the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang.”
The allegations highlight a turf war between the Bandidos and rival gang B*EAST since 2019, resulting in violent incidents involving firearms on public roads and establishments.
Several individuals face severe charges. John M. Pfeffer (aka Big John), Darvi Hinojosa (aka 10 Round), Bradley Rickenbacker (aka Dolla Bill), Michael H. Dunphy (aka Money Mike), Christopher Sanchez (aka Monster), Brandon K. Hantz (aka Loco and Gun Drop) are charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering activity among other crimes.
David Vargas (aka Brake Check) faces charges including murder in aid of racketeering, which carries a potential life sentence or death penalty if convicted.
Additional charges involve assault, robbery leading to death, drug trafficking conspiracies, and firearm violations against various defendants such as Marky Baker (aka Pinche Guero), Ronnie McCabe (aka Meathead), Jeremy Cox (aka JD), Roy Gomez (aka Repo), Marcel Lett, John Sblendorio (aka Tech9), Sean G. Christison (aka Skinman).
This case is part of broader efforts by federal agencies under initiatives like Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods aimed at reducing violent crime through coordinated law enforcement actions.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Kelly Zenón-Matos are prosecuting this case alongside Trial Attorneys Grace H. Bowen and Christopher Taylor from the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division - Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.
An indictment serves as a formal accusation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty through due process.