A federal grand jury in Los Angeles has indicted Eugene Henley, also known as "Big U," on a 43-count indictment, as announced by the Justice Department. Henley, 58, is a leader of the Rollin' 60s Neighborhood Crips and is charged with several felonies, including fraud, robbery, extortion, tax crimes, and murder.
Henley faces charges including racketeering conspiracy, Hobbs Act violations, wire fraud, Mann Act violations, embezzlement, bank fraud, and tax offenses. He has been in custody since March 19 following a federal complaint. His arraignment is scheduled for April 8.
Others charged in the indictment include Sylvester Robinson, Mark Martin, Termaine Ashley Williams, Armani Aflleje, Fredrick Blanton Jr., and Tiffany Shanrika Hines. They face similar charges and will be arraigned soon.
"Mr. Henley led a criminal enterprise whose conduct ranged from murder to sophisticated fraud that included stealing from taxpayers and a charity," stated Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. "Eradicating gangs and organized crime is the Department of Justice's top priority."
The indictment describes Henley's "Big U Enterprise" as a mafia-like organization using his status with the Rollin' 60s to conduct criminal activities. The enterprise allegedly engaged in acts of violence, intimidation, and fraud to expand its reach and power.
Henley is accused of murdering an aspiring musician, obtaining loans fraudulently, and embezzling funds intended for his charity, Developing Options. The charity is financed by donations and government funds aimed at reducing gang activity.
Henley allegedly used social media and other platforms to bolster the enterprise's notoriety and create an atmosphere of fear.
If convicted, Henley and his co-defendants face significant prison sentences, with some charges carrying penalties of up to 30 years.
The investigation is led by various law enforcement agencies, including the FBI’s Los Angeles Metropolitan Task Force on Violent Gangs and IRS Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Butler and Jena A. MacCabe.
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