Eight members of the Memphis-based Young Mob (YM) gang have been indicted on a series of charges including racketeering, murder, robbery, use of firearm, and drug offenses. Among those charged are Larry Wilson, Brian "Stupid Duke" Lackland—a known rapper—and six other Tennessee residents. This comes as a significant action by federal and local law enforcement working to curtail gang violence within the community, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The allegations against the individuals describe a gang allegedly involved in a range of violent criminal activities, including murder and armed robbery. Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti commented on the case, stating that this type of violence contributes to fear and instability in affected communities. In a statement provided by the U.S. Attorney's Office, Galeotti emphasized the federal government's commitment to holding accountable gangs that engage in such conduct.
Members of the Young Mob gang are accused of engaging in violent acts such as shooting rival gang members and carrying out armed robberies. Reported incidents include the killing of a rival gang member at a McDonald’s drive-through and a robbery at Tug’s Casual Grill, where bystanders were struck by gunfire. In a separate event, gang members allegedly left an injured accomplice at a nearby fire station after a robbery.
Drug conspiracy charges add another layer to the indictment, with some accused members allegedly responsible for the distribution of significant quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Contributions to the gang's income reportedly come from drug trafficking, kidnappings, robberies, and interestingly, from various musical interests, highlighted by the indictment of Lackland, who has a public persona in the rap industry. If convicted, members face penalties ranging from 20 years to life in prison.
An inter-agency investigative effort involving the ATF, Memphis Multi-Agency Gang Unit, and Memphis Police Homicide Unit led to this indictment. The prosecuting team includes Trial Attorneys Brian P. Leaming and Amanda Kotula of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Neal Oldham for the Western District of Tennessee
An indictment is a formal accusation and does not constitute evidence of guilt; all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
