Edward Y. Kim, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, along with Homeland Security Investigations and the NYPD, announced the indictment of Paul Johnson, also known as "PJ Glizzy," for his alleged involvement in a drive-by shooting that resulted in the death of 18-year-old Jayquan McKenley. Johnson, identified as a member of the Bronx-based "Original Goonz" gang, faces charges including racketeering conspiracy and murder in aid of racketeering, as detailed in a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office.

As per allegations in the indictment, Johnson and his associates were said to operate in the Bronx region, engaging in narcotics trafficking and violent acts to defend their gang's status and territory. The latest charges suggest a continued effort by law enforcement to fiercely crack down on gang violence, which has plagued the streets of New York City. The Original Goonz is accused of engaging in criminal activities persistently from at least 2019 through December 2024.

Johnson, 23, faces several severe charges, with the count of murder in aid of racketeering alone carrying a mandatory life sentence or the death penalty. Acting U.S. Attorney Kim commented on the incident, saying, “Jayquan McKenley’s death was senseless.  As alleged, Paul Johnson murdered him as part of a dispute between rival gangs.  We hope that today’s charges bring some measure of comfort to McKenley’s family and make clear that this Office and our law enforcement partners will never stop investigating those who commit violence on our streets,” as noted by the U.S. Attorney's Office.

William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge at HSI, expressed his stance on the case, remarking, “Paul Johnson's alleged ruthless murder of Jayquan McKenley sent shockwaves through our Brooklyn neighborhoods and shone a light on the level of senseless violence committed by street gangs in New York City.  Today's indictment is the result of the relentless work and determination of HSI New York's Violent Gang Task Force.  The streets are made safer everyday thanks to the dedication of New York's local, state, and federal law enforcement who work together to obtain justice for victims of violent crime,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick R. Moroney is spearheading the prosecution on behalf of the Violent and Organized Crime Unit, according to the same press release.

While Johnson has been charged with serious offenses, it is important to remember that these charges are accusations. The defendant is considered innocent until proven guilty. With this latest indictment, the federal court system moves to address the broader issue of gang violence, and all eyes will be on the U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero's courtroom as the case unfolds.