24 alleged members of an Aryan, white supremacist prison gang face criminal charges in Texas, Mississippi, and Kentucky. The gang has allegedly committed stabbing, killing, and shooting crimes in at least 11 states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Texas, and Arkansas. The race-based, violent gang is well-known for committing dangerous crimes. All but one of the defendants are now in custody. They face charges for racketeering conspiracy, violent crimes in aid of racketeering, drug charges, unlawful firearms trafficking, and drug conspiracy.
The gang started in the 1980s inside Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, and Louisiana prisons. Now, their influence has extended outside of the prison system into urban and suburban areas alike. They have engaged in internal violence as well as conflicts with other gangs. Members allegedly engaged in beatings, stabbings, shootings, and “patch-burning,” which involves violently removing a victim’s gang tattoo. Below, we will discuss some of the changes we’re facing.
Facing Drug Conspiracy Charges in Texas
Drug conspiracy happens when people play roles in drug crimes or are part of alleged criminal organizations, such as the gang mentioned above. Conspiracy to commit a Texas or federal drug crime is illegal. Keep in mind that a defendant can face charges for drug conspiracy even if you did not end up committing the actual crime. If you did not commit the actual crime, prosecutors might be able to charge you with it, or any other offense that comes out of the conspiracy.
Facing Charges for Unlawful Firearms Trafficking
Firearm smuggling is illegal in Texas, and it involves exporting, selling, or sending illegally obtained firearms to or from Texas. This Texas law is often criticized for being too broad and vague. Unfortunately for defendants, prosecutors exploit this statute to try to convict defendants who may not be guilty. Prosecutors must prove that you knowingly engaged in transporting or transferring a firearm and knew you acquired the firearm in violation of Texas or federal laws. Prosecutors typically charge this crime as a felony in the third degree. Those charged can also face law enforcement officers forfeiting any assets associated with firearm trafficking.
Facing Drug Charges in Texas
Possession of controlled substances is illegal under Texas and federal law. If you are facing a drug charge, it is extremely important to hire an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. You can raise several defenses, including the defense that you were not in actual or constructive possession of the controlled substances. You can also argue that law enforcement officers violated your constitutional rights.
Contact Our Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you face a criminal charge in the Dallas, Ft. Worth, or Plano areas, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. At Abel Law Firm, we have a proven track record of successfully representing clients facing criminal charges. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation to learn how we can advocate for your rights.