An investigation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in collaboration with the Virginia State Police and the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, has resulted in racketeering conspiracy charges against Moises Humberto Rivera-Luna, a leader of the MS-13 gang. Rivera-Luna was extradited from Guatemala to the United States on March 4.
"Moise Humberto Rivera-Luna will have his day in court, but he stands accused of very serious crimes," stated Christopher Heck, acting Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C. "His alleged criminal activity, combined with his leadership of the MS-13 transnational criminal organization, makes Rivera-Luna a significant threat to the safety of the American people."
Rivera-Luna appeared in court on March 5 following his extradition to face charges related to racketeering conspiracy. The indictment includes allegations against him and six co-defendants for crimes such as murder and kidnapping in aid of racketeering.
"The Virginia State Police is committed to protecting the public from violent gangs," said VSP Superintendent Colonel Matthew Hanley. He highlighted that this extradition was achieved through cooperation with ICE HSI Washington, D.C.
The investigation revealed that while incarcerated in El Salvador, Rivera-Luna supervised MS-13 operations in Washington before moving to Guatemala where he was apprehended for extradition. The MS-13 gang is involved in various criminal activities including murder and extortion.
“The decade-long pursuit of this alleged violent gang member illustrates our office’s resolve,” remarked U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., emphasizing their commitment to justice regardless of time or location.
The joint investigation indicated frequent communication between MS-13 members across borders and identified Rivera-Luna's role in orchestrating violence against perceived threats within their ranks.
Significant assistance came from several law enforcement agencies including those from Montgomery County and Prince George’s County as well as international support for securing Rivera-Luna's extradition.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia under an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces operation aimed at dismantling high-level criminal organizations threatening national security.
