Major Crackdown on Sex Money Murder Gang in Savannah

Savannah, Georgia – Major Crackdown on Sex Money Murder Gang Results in Indictment of 30 Members

A comprehensive four-year investigation culminated in the indictment of 30 members and associates of the Sex Money Murder (SMM) street gang, with charges spanning racketeering, murder, drug trafficking, fraud, and firearms offenses. This initiative represents one of the largest responses to gang violence in the region, as authorities aim to restore safety and order within the community.

The Savannah Division of the U.S. District Court of Georgia officially announced the indictments during a press conference held on Thursday. The investigation was propelled by a collaborative effort involving several law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and local law enforcement from Chatham, DeKalb, and Liberty counties.

Arrests related to this crackdown took place on May 14 across various locations, including Hinesville, Savannah, Augusta, and the broader Metro Atlanta area, as well as in several other states—Florida, New York, New Jersey, Texas, California, North and South Carolina. The SMM gang is recognized as an affiliate of the national gang network known as The Bloods.

Serious Charges and Criminal Activities

The defendants face a slate of serious charges that include RICO conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, and various drug and fraud conspiracies. Notably, the indictment alleges that gang members unlawfully diverted COVID-19 relief funds, leading to losses that exceed $850,000. Additionally, the investigation uncovered extreme violence among gang members, including a murder incident where a member was killed shortly after he expressed a desire to leave the gang.

Certain acts of violence were particularly shocking, such as the murder of a young victim who accused gang member Byron Hopkins of impregnating a minor. The SMM gang also operated a nonprofit front, a website named “Listen to the Kids,” which was used to solicit donations to financially support their criminal enterprises.

The SMM gang was known for trafficking significant quantities of drugs, including methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin, which were widely distributed throughout the Savannah area. The extent of their illicit activities can be seen in the large scale of operations requiring collaboration across states.

Current Status of Defendants

Among the 30 indicted gang members, currently, a total of 18 defendants are incarcerated, while another 10 individuals already imprisoned face related charges. Quinn Howard, a notable figure among the indicted, was initially wanted but has since been taken into custody. However, two members remain at-large, and Howard was previously considered armed and dangerous.

If convicted, the defendants face severe penalties that include potential life sentences or the death penalty for murder-related charges. Penalties for racketeering may also reach life imprisonment, and significant prison times are expected for those involved in fraud schemes.

Background Context

The investigation into the SMM gang highlighted deeply entrenched issues related to gang violence and criminal activity that permeates not only Savannah but also extends beyond Georgia, implicating actions in seven additional states. The findings underlined not just the risks posed by these gangs to the community but also the complicated dynamics of criminal enforcement, particularly the violent enforcement of gang rules, including repercussions for members deemed to have committed misconduct.

Acting United States Attorney Tara M. Lyons remarked that the indictment signifies a critical step toward addressing gang violence and restoring a sense of security in the affected communities.