An Antelope Valley man, identified as a member of the Pasadena Denver Lanes Bloods gang, has been apprehended following a federal indictment that tied him and two accomplices to a series of shootings in Lancaster last year, which resulted in two fatalities and a near-fatal attempt. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California, Jerry Wimbley III, otherwise known as “Baby Poppa Ckrab,” 20, of Lancaster, was taken into custody and is slated for an initial court appearance in downtown Los Angeles.
The indictment has charged Wimbley III with two counts of murder in aid of racketeering, alongside fellow gang members Vionnie Richardson, 37, and Jerry Wimbley Jr., 22, who faces similar charges, with Richardson also charged with an additional count of attempted murder and being a felon in possession of ammunition, given his felony convictions which include second-degree robbery assault using force likely to produce great bodily harm, and theft of identity. According to the indictment, the shootings occurred in succession on the night of June 25, 2024, where Richardson first attempted to murder one individual, then was joined by the Wimbley brothers for the subsequent two murders, after which they gathered at a deceased gang member’s graveside to pledge allegiance to their gang.
"As alleged in the indictment, these defendants engaged in violent and senseless acts," United States Attorney Bill Essayli expressed, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to combat gang violence and to maintain community safety. The indictment outlines the operation of the PDL Bloods in areas such as Pasadena and the Antelope Valley since the 1970s, engaging in criminal activities including murder, robbery, and money laundering.
Lancashire County Sheriff Robert G. Luna condemned the alleged brutality of these crimes, promising that gang violence would be held accountable. "The brutality of these alleged crimes reflects a complete disregard for human life and public safety," Luna said. The ATF's Special Agent in Charge Kenny Cooper also remarked on the collaborative effort of law enforcement agencies in apprehending violent criminals and reducing crime rates.
