In a significant crackdown on gang-related crime, a federal grand jury has indicted 37 members and associates of the South Los Angeles-based Florencia 13 (F13) street gang on various federal charges, including three counts of murder. The announcement was made today by the combined efforts of federal and local law enforcement officers, detailing the unsealing of the indictments.

Of those charged, 23 individuals have been arrested and are expected to face arraignment later today in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles, as confirmed by federal authorities. This takedown included not only the arrests but also substantial seizures of drugs and firearms. Already in custody were six defendants, with authorities actively searching for eight others, some of whom are believed to be in Mexico, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Central District of California.

An extensive investigation preceding today’s actions resulted in the seizure of around 21 pounds of methamphetamine, nine pounds of fentanyl, and 6.5 pounds of heroin. Additionally, law enforcement confiscated 25 firearms and about $70,000 in cash connected to this case. According to a statement from United States Attorney Martin Estrada, as noted by The Department of Justice, the takedown demonstrated a relentless stance against these criminal organizations.

At the heart of the charges stand two federal grand jury indictments targeting F13. In one brutal incident noted in the indictments, a mob of F13 members allegedly beat a man to death outside a bar in the gang's claimed territory on October 17, 2022. "Through murder, drug trafficking, violent robberies, and other criminal behavior, street gangs bring devastation upon our communities," Estrada stated. The indictment also credits F13 members with managing illegal after-hours bars, trafficking in narcotics, and utilizing illegal firearms. Saul Ayon Quintero, 50, of Bellflower, and others face charges related to drug trafficking, signifying the gang's extensive involvement in illegal activities. Additional charges include separate counts of methamphetamine distribution and firearm-related offenses.

Public Information Officer Ciaran McEvoy invites those looking for further details to visit the Department of Justice's website for additional information on the OCDETF Program and ongoing efforts against high-level criminal organizations.