Three men, alleged members of the MS-13 gang, have appeared in court in Maryland. They face charges related to a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) conspiracy involving murder and drug trafficking.
Court documents state that on July 4, 2024, Maxwell Ariel Quijano-Casco, Daniel Isaias Villanueva-Bautista, and Josue Mauricio Lainez allegedly killed a homeless man linked to their MS-13 activities. The victim was found in a parked van in Hyattsville, Maryland.
U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes announced the indictment alongside Matthew R. Galeotti from the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI; and Chief George Nader of Prince George’s County Police Department.
According to court records, video surveillance captured Quijano-Casco approaching the victim with another person before fleeing. Later, Quijano-Casco returned with Villanueva-Bautista and Lainez to attack the victim again inside his vehicle.
“The brutal retaliatory murder of this victim is a chilling reminder of the MS-13 gang’s callous disregard for human life,” Hayes stated. “Those who assault and kill others must be brought to justice.”
Galeotti added: “MS-13 is an especially brutal gang... Bringing those who commit violent crime to justice is one of the highest priorities for the Criminal Division.”
Perez emphasized: “The FBI and our partners are committed to using every tool available to prevent violent criminals from terrorizing communities.”
On August 23, police arrested Quijano-Casco and Villanueva-Bautista. At arrest, Quijano-Casco had a handgun and cocaine. He admitted involvement but claimed self-defense.
All three defendants face RICO conspiracy charges related to murder on July 4. If convicted, they could receive life sentences.
An indictment does not equate guilt; defendants are presumed innocent until proven otherwise.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended law enforcement efforts in this case under Operation Take Back America—a DOJ initiative against illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations.
The public can report information about MS-13 through FBI or HSI tiplines at 1-866-STP-MS13 or 1-866-DHS-2-ICE respectively.
For more details about Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office resources visit justice.gov/usao-md.
