Federal and local law enforcement agencies have arrested 42 members and associates of the SFV Peckerwoods, a San Fernando Valley-based white supremacist street gang, the Justice Department announced Thursday. The arrests are part of a broader crackdown targeting alleged drug trafficking, illegal firearms possession, and COVID-19 benefits fraud.
A 76-count federal grand jury indictment unsealed today charges a total of 68 defendants with crimes including racketeering conspiracy, drug distribution, bank fraud, and illegal firearms possession. The charges stem from a years-long investigation into the gang’s activities across Southern California.
“This operation struck at the heart of a violent, racist criminal enterprise,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “The Peckerwoods’ alleged involvement in drug trafficking, firearms offenses, and financial fraud posed a significant threat to our communities.”
The indictment details the gang’s ties to the Aryan Brotherhood and the Mexican Mafia, as well as their use of Nazi symbolism. During the investigation, law enforcement seized large quantities of illegal firearms and drugs, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin.
Key allegations include overseeing drug stash houses, coordinating distribution operations, submitting fraudulent applications for COVID-19 relief programs, engaging in identity theft and other financial crimes, and possessing firearms illegally to further their criminal activities.
“Today’s arrests demonstrate our commitment to dismantling violent extremist groups and their criminal networks,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis.
The operation involved multiple federal and local agencies, including the FBI, DEA, LAPD, and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. It’s part of a broader Justice Department effort to combat pandemic-related fraud and dismantle violent extremist groups.
If convicted, the defendants face potential life sentences in federal prison. All are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
DOJ
