In a notable Philadelphia case, Kelvin Jimenez, known as “Nip,” and Dominique Parker, or “Dom,” have been convicted on all charges tied to their involvement in a violent drug trafficking ring. According to a recent press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the two men operated under the banner of organization names, including “SG1700” and “L-Block,” wreaking havoc in Northeast Philadelphia's Frankford area. They were found guilty late yesterday afternoon of racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, and other related crimes, such as involvement in assaults and firearms offenses.
The trial established that Jimenez and Parker were part of a group that used violence, and threats thereof, to maintain their stronghold in the drug trade over multiple years. Jimenez was specifically convicted of the murder of Kaseem Rogers, while Parker faced conviction for the murder of Dontae Walker, cementing their roles within the dark realm of SG1700's operations. As outlined in the indictment, members of this group were implicated in a series of violent acts, including the killings of Rogers, Walker, Tyrone Tyree, and Philadelphia Police Sergeant James O’Connor.
Hassan Elliott, aka “Haz,” and Khalif Sears, also known by “Leaf” and “Lil Leaf,” fellow SG1700 affiliates, entered guilty pleas earlier this year to charges including RICO conspiracy and causing the death of Sergeant O’Connor by firearm, an incident that occurred during a police operation at a stash house. The Department of Justice disclosed that when SWAT officers, including Sergeant O’Connor, served an arrest warrant at the location, Elliott unleashed a barrage from a semi-automatic assault rifle, leading to the sergeant's tragic death.
The convictions mark a significant triumph in the battle against violent drug rings and the peril they pose to communities and law enforcement. U.S. Attorney David Metcalf said, "Today, however, the Department of Justice put an end to SG1700 and their campaign of violence and destruction." He further emphasized the strong message sent to criminal organizations who dare target law enforcement: They will face unyielding federal prosecution. Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the conviction's role in delivering justice for the fallen police officer and the neighborhood terrorized by SG1700.
Jimenez's and Parker's sentencing is scheduled for July 7 and July 9, respectively, both potentially facing life in prison for their crimes. Elliott's and Sears's sentencing dates are set for April 29 and April 30, with both also staring down the prospect of life sentences. The unfolding of these events has brought some closure to the afflicted Frankford community and the broader effort to ensure public safety, as reckoned by multiple law enforcement agencies involved in the case.
