Justice Served: Pursuit of Death Penalty for MS-13 Members Accused of Targeting Federal Informant
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has authorized the pursuit of the death penalty for three alleged MS-13 members accused of killing a victim who was cooperating with authorities in California. In a memo dated April 8, Blanche directed the First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, Bilal Essayli, to seek the death penalty for Roberto Carlos Aguilar, Dennis Anaya Urias, and Grevil Zelaya Santiago. The three individuals are charged with murder in aid of racketeering for the killing of the victim, who had been targeted by the gang for cooperating with federal authorities.
The victim, who was marked for death by the MS-13 gang, was allegedly shot by Urias and Santiago at a grocery store in South Los Angeles on February 18, 2025. The Justice Department stated that the gang was aware of the victim's cooperation with the government, leading to a 'green light' order that made him a target for murder by MS-13 members. Prior to the shooting, the victim had encountered Aguilar inside the store, and later that evening, he called authorities to report that MS-13 gang members had attempted to shoot him, with gunshots heard during the second call.
If convicted, the defendants face a mandatory sentence of life in federal prison and could be eligible for the death penalty. The decision to pursue the death penalty for these individuals underscores the seriousness of the charges and the impact of gang-related violence on communities. The Justice Department's efforts to hold accountable those responsible for such crimes demonstrate a commitment to justice and public safety.