Stocks and Investing Stocks and Investing

LA Crips leader ran 'mafia-like' crime empire fronted by anti-gang charity, feds say


Published on 2025-03-20 10:24:10 - CNN
  Print publication without navigation

  • US authorities have taken a longtime leader of a Los Angeles street gang who investigators say ran a "mafia-like" criminal enterprise that included murder, human trafficking and extortion while he also worked as an entertainment entrepreneur into custody Wednesday after a brief search,

Federal authorities have charged Michael "Lil Rod" Jones, a reputed leader of the Rollin' 60s Crips gang in Los Angeles, with orchestrating a sophisticated criminal enterprise that included drug trafficking, money laundering, and fraud, all while publicly running an anti-gang charity. According to the indictment, Jones used his charity, Project L.A., as a front to launder money from illegal activities, which ranged from distributing drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl to committing fraud through schemes like credit card skimming. The operation was described as a "mafia-like" organization, with Jones allegedly using his influence to control gang activities and intimidate rivals. The case highlights the complex nature of modern gang operations, blending community outreach with criminal endeavors.

Read the Full CNN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/la-crips-leader-ran-mafia-like-crime-empire-fronted-by-anti-gang-charity-feds-say/ar-AA1Bhzkl ]