E. Martin Estrada, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California
A federal complaint has been filed against Eugene Henley Jr., a leader of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips and an entertainment entrepreneur, alleging he operated a criminal enterprise involved in racketeering activities such as extortion, human trafficking, fraud, and murder. The Justice Department announced that Henley, known as "Big U," faces charges of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.
Sylvester Robinson and Mark Martin, alleged members of the same criminal enterprise, were also arrested on similar charges. Both are scheduled to appear in United States District Court in Los Angeles. Henley is currently considered a fugitive.
"The allegations in the complaint unsealed today reveal a criminal enterprise that engaged in murder, extortion, human trafficking, and fraud – all led by a supposed anti-gang activist and purported music entrepreneur who was nothing more than a violent street criminal," stated Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. He emphasized that eliminating gangs and organized crime remains a top priority for the Department of Justice.
Akil Davis from the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office noted that efforts have been ongoing for four years to address these crimes: "The lead defendant and others in this case have for too long gotten away with violent acts and stealing money from taxpayers and well-intentioned donors whether they use intimidation tactics or wield influence as purportedly rehabilitated original gangsters."
In recent operations, law enforcement arrested 10 members associated with the Rollin’ 60s on various federal charges including drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The search continues for five other defendants linked to these activities.
The affidavit supporting the complaint outlines how Henley's group, referred to as "Big U Enterprise," functioned like a mafia organization using intimidation tactics. This included alleged involvement in the murder of an aspiring musician identified as "R.W." In January 2021, Henley reportedly killed R.W., following disagreements over recording terms at Uneek Music studio.
Additionally, Big U Enterprise allegedly committed fraud by submitting false applications for COVID-19 relief loans under claims of financial profitability despite operating at losses. Donations meant for Developing Options—Henley's charity aimed at providing alternatives to gang violence—were allegedly embezzled by him.
Special Agent Tyler Hatcher from IRS Criminal Investigation commented on these developments: “The RICO charges against Mr. Henley and his associates reflect a pattern of crimes that runs the gambit from extortion to tax evasion.”
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell praised collaborative efforts with federal agencies: “From day one, the Los Angeles Police Department has been proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the FBI in this critical investigation.”
If convicted under RICO charges, Henley could face life imprisonment while Robinson and Martin might receive up to 20 years each. Multiple agencies including FBI’s Metropolitan Task Force on Violent Gangs are involved in investigating this case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Butler and Jena A. MacCabe will prosecute these proceedings.
