A leader of the MS-13 gang, Jose Vasquez, known as "Cholo" or "Little Crazy," has admitted to his involvement in a 2010 murder in Chelsea, Massachusetts. Currently serving a federal sentence for racketeering conspiracy, Vasquez pleaded guilty to one count of violent crime in aid of racketeering. The sentencing is scheduled for June 30, 2025, by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young.
The charge carries a potential life sentence and a fine up to $250,000. This case was part of an indictment issued by a federal grand jury against Vasquez and two other MS-13 members in September 2024.
MS-13 is recognized as a transnational criminal organization with operations across several countries including the United States and Central America. Its members are involved in acts of violence to maintain their status within the gang. Vasquez was affiliated with the Trece Locos Salvatrucha clique based in Somerville, Massachusetts.
The murder occurred on December 18, 2010. Law enforcement found a male victim with multiple stab wounds under the Fifth Street on-ramp to Route 1 in Chelsea after responding to a call at around 7:10 p.m. The victim later died from his injuries at the hospital.
Investigations revealed that Vasquez and other MS-13 members targeted the victim due to suspicions he belonged to a rival gang. On the day of the murder, they lured him from Allston to Chelsea where he was attacked with rocks and knives by multiple assailants including Vasquez.
Evidence linking Vasquez includes his palm print on a knife handle found at the scene and recordings from an MS-13 meeting weeks after the incident where participants discussed their roles in the murder.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced this development alongside officials from various law enforcement agencies who assisted in this investigation as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative aimed at dismantling significant criminal organizations.
Details from indictments remain allegations until proven otherwise in court proceedings involving remaining defendants.
