In a major crackdown on gang violence, Desean Solomon, a member of the Minneapolis Bloods, has been sentenced to life plus an additional 20 years for RICO and firearms offenses. Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick announced the sentence after a jury trial found Solomon guilty. Kirkpatrick expressed the government's dedication to dismantling gangs, stating, "Together with our federal and state partners, we brought RICO charges against major Minneapolis street gangs. The first of those cases was the Bloods RICO. Defendant Solomon—who committed murder for the benefit of the gang—was the first RICO trial defendant to be sentenced. We hope that today’s sentence."
The vigorous pursuit of gang-related activities by law enforcement aims to curb the rising tide of violence associated with these groups. Kirkpatrick hopes the sentence sends a strong message: "If you are a Minneapolis gang member, the feds are coming for you. Get out and choose a different path before it is too late." The sentiment is echoed by FBI Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr., who told the Justice Department, "Today’s sentence reflects the gravity of the crimes committed."
Evidence presented during the trial showed Solomon, also known as Black, had been actively involved with the Bloods since at least 2020. His criminal activities included participation in two premeditated murders within a two-year span. Specific incidents detailed at trial included an assault and resultant gun battle outside a north Minneapolis nightclub in June of 2020, where Solomon and another Bloods member fatally shot a rival gang member. Another event on April 23, 2022, involved a lethal shooting by Solomon and fellow gang members following a bar fight.
U.S. District Court Judge Susan R. Nelson presided over the sentencing and shared her perspective on Solomon's future rehabilitation potential, or lack thereof. "I was searching for a kernel of hope that you could be trusted to not be a danger to society," she said, indicating finally that such trust was impossible due to Solomon's "utter and complete disregard for human life." This case emerged from a coordinated effort between the FBI and the Minneapolis Police Department to target gang violence. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristian Weir represented the government at the sentencing hearing, as reported by the Justice Department.
