Introduction to the Case
Eight alleged gang members in Queens were taken into custody on racketeering and assault charges. The defendants include Felix Bonilla Ramos (also known as “Chabelo” and “Ferras”), 36, Corona; Uriel Lopez (also known as “Tanke”), 30, Jackson Heights; Refugio Martinez (also known as “Cuco”), 32, Elmhurst; Margarito Ortega (also known as “Pinocchio”), 38, Elmhurst; Orlando Ramirez (also known as “Niñote”), 24, Elmhurst; German Rodriguez (also known as “Loco”), 34, Woodhaven; David Vasquez Corona (also known as “Teba”), 29, Elmhurst; and Marco Vidal Mendez (also known as “Matute”), 36, formerly of Elmhurst.
Alleged Gang Activities
The defendants are alleged members and associates of the “54 Tiny Locos” clique, which controls a busy commercial corridor along Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights. Six defendants are charged with racketeering conspiracy, including predicate acts involving narcotics and firearms trafficking, production and sale of fraudulent identification documents, and extortion. Seven defendants are also charged with assaults in aid of racketeering, and one defendant is charged with being an alien in possession of a 9mm semiautomatic pistol and ammunition.
United States Attorney Joseph Nocella speaks about the 18th Street gang with Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and FBI New York Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia
Photo by Lloyd Mitchell
Press Conference and Charges
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, FBI New York Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia and Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz held a press conference to announce new gang arrests on racketeering charges on June 16.
“This indictment represents a significant step in our ongoing effort to dismantle violent gang networks in our communities,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “The 18th Street gang exploited a Queens neighborhood as a hub for violence and illicit activity. Today’s arrests show the community that my Office and our law enforcement partners are working tirelessly to put these violent criminals behind bars.”
Gang’s Financing and Extortion
According to the charges, the gang allegedly financed its operations through drug dealing and other crimes, including trafficking in fraudulent identification documents — including fake passports, permanent resident cards, Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cards — and counterfeit currency. Members of 18th Street, including the defendants, also allegedly committed extortion by charging “rent” to other illicit businesses operating in the area, including unregulated brothels.
Past Assaults
Certain defendants are also charged in connection with three past assaults over the past few years. The first incident took place on Dec. 31, 2021, when members of 18th Street, including Bonilla Ramos, Ramirez, and a co-conspirator, allegedly assaulted two victims outside of a Queens bar after asking if they were in a gang. The defendants allegedly violently beat the victims, with one victim being smashed twice with a glass bottle of tequila, leaving him with severe lacerations to his face and nerve damage.
Queens DA Melinda Katz speaks to reporters about the 18th Street gang being taken down on racketteering crimes in Jackson Heights along Roosevelt Avenue.
Photo by Lloyd Mitchell
Conclusion
The arrests of these alleged gang members mark a significant step in the effort to dismantle violent gang networks in Queens. The community can feel safer knowing that law enforcement is working tirelessly to put these violent criminals behind bars.
FAQs
Q: How many alleged gang members were taken into custody?
A: Eight alleged gang members were taken into custody on racketeering and assault charges.
Q: What is the name of the gang clique that the defendants are alleged to be members of?
A: The defendants are alleged members and associates of the “54 Tiny Locos” clique.
Q: What are the defendants charged with?
A: The defendants are charged with racketeering conspiracy, assaults in aid of racketeering, and other crimes.
Q: What is the role of the Queens District Attorney’s Office in the case?
A: The Queens District Attorney’s Office is working with the United States Attorney’s Office and other law enforcement agencies to combat violent criminal enterprises and dismantle gangs in Queens.
