An indictment was unsealed in the Southern District of Georgia, charging 30 individuals associated with the Sex Money Murder (SMM) gang. The charges include racketeering conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, conspiracy to commit murder, wire fraud conspiracy, and related firearm and drug trafficking offenses.
Court documents reveal that SMM members used violence to enforce gang rules. They allegedly killed a member who wanted to leave the gang and attempted to kill another for alleged homosexual activities while incarcerated. The gang is accused of trafficking methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin in the Savannah area and engaging in fraud schemes targeting federal COVID-19 relief programs with intended losses exceeding $850,000.
Matthew Galeotti from the Justice Department’s Criminal Division stated: “As alleged, the Sex Money Murder gang...brutally enforced its purported rules...engaged in rampant drug trafficking and federal program fraud to enrich themselves.” He emphasized ongoing efforts to dismantle such organizations.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tara M. Lyons for the Southern District of Georgia commented on the indictment's significance in combating gang violence: “Today’s indictment is an important step in ending gang violence on our streets and in our prisons.”
Paul Brown of the FBI Atlanta Field Office highlighted the impact of the gang's actions: “The violence and crime this gang committed across our region contributed to an epidemic in our nation.”
Assistant Special Agent Beau Kolodka of ATF praised law enforcement coordination: “This case demonstrates the relentless coordination and commitment among our law enforcement partners.”
Director Chris Hosey of GBI affirmed their dedication: “The GBI remains committed to working alongside our federal, state, and local partners.”
Commissioner Tyrone Oliver of Georgia Department of Corrections addressed contraband cell phone use by inmates: “The use of contraband cell phones as a tool to carry out gang activity...will not be tolerated.”
The indictment describes a specific incident involving Byron Hopkins and other SMM members luring a young victim under false pretenses before killing him. This act exemplifies SMM's violent enforcement methods against dissenting members.
Originating from The Bloods gang in Los Angeles during the 1970s, SMM has expanded along the East Coast into areas like Georgia. Allegations include orchestrating crimes within correctional facilities.
If convicted, defendants face severe penalties including life imprisonment or death for certain charges. The investigation involves multiple agencies including FBI, ATF, GBI, and others.
Trial Attorney Lisa M. Thelwell from VCRS and Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank M. Pennington III are prosecuting. The case stems from OCDETF investigations aimed at dismantling high-level criminal organizations threatening national security.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.