A federal superseding indictment was returned today in Chicago, charging three individuals allegedly linked to a street gang with conspiracy involving multiple murders and carjackings. The accused, EDSON RESENDEZ, MAVERICK CELA, and PREZILA APREZA, are reportedly associated with the Spanish Gangster Disciples gang based on Chicago's Northwest Side. The indictment suggests that these activities were part of a racketeering conspiracy that included three murders, two attempted murders, four carjackings, an attempted carjacking, and arson over two weeks in 2020.
The accused individuals are currently in law enforcement custody awaiting arraignment on the new charges. U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois Andrew S. Boutros and FBI Chicago Field Office Special Agent-in-Charge Douglas S. DePodesta announced the indictment. The Skokie Police Department, Chicago Police Department, Morton Grove Police Department, and Berwyn Police Department contributed valuable assistance to this case.
U.S. Attorney Boutros stated: “Combating the unacceptable level of gang violence in the Chicago area has been and will continue to be a top priority in our Office.” He emphasized his commitment to using federal law enforcement tools against violent crime as he marks his first month in office.
FBI SAC DePodesta commented: "The FBI is committed to eradicating neighborhood street gangs and the violence unleashed in our communities." He highlighted ongoing efforts by FBI Chicago’s Violent Crime Task Force alongside local partners.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime perpetrators through coordinated resources from various task forces.
The public is reminded that an indictment does not equate to guilt; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt at trial.
