Justice Department charges more than 80 people in Puerto Rico gang takedown

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — The U.S. Justice Department has charged over 80 individuals in the apprehension of a violent Puerto Rican gang, Attorney General Todd Blanche declared on Thursday during his visit to the island as part of the Trump administration's initiative to address violent crime.

The gang, identified as "Los Baja Deo," was responsible for trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, and other illicit substances from Mayagüez, a city in the west coast of Puerto Rico, generating nearly $50 million in revenue. This criminal organization was also responsible for shootings, killings, kidnappings, and assaults, and distributed at least 340 kilograms of fentanyl or fentanyl-laced narcotics, according to federal prosecutors.

Attorney General Blanche's presence in Puerto Rico for the announcement highlights the Trump administration's commitment to addressing cartels and gangs that contribute to drug trafficking and violence in U.S. communities. Blanche, during his appearance at the U.S. attorney's office in San Juan, emphasized the unified efforts of Homeland Security Task Forces nationwide to eliminate the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations across the United States.

Héctor Ramírez-Carbó, the acting U.S. attorney for Puerto Rico, stated that the 81 violent gang members will now face justice, along with any individuals who may attempt to replace them. He added, "Today, the families of Mayagüez can enjoy their communities' offerings without fear of harm."