Following an eight-day trial, a federal jury in Minneapolis has found two defendants guilty of all charges related to their involvement with the Highs street gang. Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson announced that Cortez Davon Blakemore, 35, and Robert Lesure, 23, were convicted of federal RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Their sentencing will be scheduled later.
The court documents revealed that Blakemore and Lesure were significant drug traffickers for the Highs gang, operating at Broadway and Lyndale in North Minneapolis. The area was known as an open-air drug market controlled by the gang, notorious for its violent activities including drug sales, kidnapping, and murder.
These convictions are part of a broader effort against the Highs gang. A total of forty members have been charged under this large RICO indictment, with Blakemore and Lesure being the 37th and 38th to be convicted. One more defendant is set to stand trial in 2026.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson stated, “These convictions bring justice not just to the victims of the Highs gang but to an entire community that has endured years of violence, fear, and loss.” He emphasized that law enforcement will continue its efforts until every neighborhood is free from fear.
Travis Riddle from ATF expressed pride in their partnership with prosecutors saying it was a continuation of efforts to dismantle the Highs gang completely. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara highlighted a decrease in violent crime over summer due to collaborative efforts with federal authorities.
IRS Special Agent Jason Bushey commented on targeting financial aspects behind criminal activities while FBI Special Agent Alvin M. Winston Sr. noted the importance of partnerships in law enforcement success.
This case resulted from extensive investigations by several agencies including ATF, FBI, Minneapolis Police Department among others supported by various local offices such as Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
The prosecution team comprised Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Calhoun-Lopez, Albania Concepcion along with Carla Baumel working alongside Attorney Brian Lynch from Justice Department’s Violent Crime & Racketeering Section who played crucial roles throughout these proceedings.
