The Department of Homeland Security announced on Mar. 17 that Ramiro Antonio “Cara de Malo” Gutierrez Garcia, a Salvadoran national and confirmed MS-13 gang member, has been sentenced to 55 years in federal prison for his role in two murders committed in Queens, New York.
Gutierrez Garcia's sentencing follows his involvement in the killings of Victor Alvarenga and Abel Mosso. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address violent crime linked to transnational gangs operating within the United States.
According to local reports referenced by the Department of Homeland Security, Gutierrez Garcia participated as a getaway driver and planner in the November 4, 2018 shooting death of Victor Alvarenga near his home in Flushing. The murder was reportedly ordered by MS-13 leadership and involved coordination among several gang members. On February 3, 2019, Gutierrez Garcia and two other MS-13 members targeted Abel Mosso on a subway train at Main Street station. After assaulting Mosso inside the train car and dragging him onto the platform at Jackson Heights' 90th Street station, Gutierrez Garcia shot Mosso multiple times after regaining control of a firearm during the altercation.
Homeland Security Investigations worked with federal and local partners throughout the investigation leading to Gutierrez Garcia’s arrest and prosecution. "This MS-13 gang member participated in two brutal murders while illegally in our country. This monster is now facing 55 years in prison for these barbaric murders," said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis. "MS-13 is one of the most barbaric criminal gangs in the world. They rape, maim, and murder for sport. President Trump is dismantling transnational criminal gangs. DHS has arrested more than 7,800 criminal illegal alien gang members from American communities since President Trump took office."
Authorities stated that Gutierrez Garcia entered the United States illegally at an unknown time and location.
The Department of Homeland Security encourages victims of crimes committed by illegal aliens to seek support through its Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement Office.
