A federal jury has convicted Lamar Williams, also known as Black, Little Black, and Chase Money Marz, for the 2013 murder of Rasheed Barton, closing a case that has affected the Bronx for nearly a decade. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Williams, a reputed leader of the Mac Ballers gang, was found guilty of murder in aid of racketeering, murder using a firearm, and racketeering conspiracy.
The verdict came after a seven-day trial overseen by U.S. District Judge Loretta A. Preska. Williams, now 35, faces a statutory sentence of life imprisonment. His time with the Mac Ballers, a faction of the Bloods gang, involved violent actions aimed at both defending and expanding the gang’s territory, which extended across the Northeast and into New York’s jails and prisons. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton emphasized the community’s interest in removing violent gang members from the streets.
Prosecutors outlined the gang’s operations, including drug distribution, violent acts, and intimidation. They said this violence led to the death of 28-year-old Rasheed Barton, who was shot in the Bronx by Williams in connection with his involvement in drug trafficking and gang rivalry. The case marks the conclusion of a long-standing chapter of gang-related violence.
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton praised the New York City Police Department, crediting the successful prosecution to the combined efforts of the FBI, DEA, HSI, and local law enforcement. The case was handled by the Office’s Violent Organizations and Crime Unit, led by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan W. Allison and Patrick R. Moroney. Williams is scheduled to be sentenced on May 19, when Judge Preska will determine his punishment.
.jpg){kind=link}