Trina A. Higgins, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Utah
An alleged member of the Florencia 13 gang appeared in federal court in Salt Lake City, Utah, following an indictment for attempted murder on Christmas Day. Javier Pedregon-Magana, also known as "Big Payaso" and "Paya," is accused of attacking a victim with a knife and then attempting to run the person over with a car. The incident occurred on December 25, 2024, in the District of Utah.
Court documents reveal that Pedregon-Magana allegedly carried out the attack to restore his standing within the criminal street gang he is associated with. The victim sustained multiple stab wounds requiring immediate medical attention.
Pedregon-Magana faces charges including violent crime in aid of racketeering—assault resulting in serious bodily injury, assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted murder. His initial court appearance took place on February 26, 2025.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah. The case is being investigated by the Sandy City Police Department, State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office Metro Gang Unit. It is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah.
This prosecution falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing gun violence and other violent crimes through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community organizations.
It should be noted that an indictment serves only as an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law.
