Interim AG Todd Blanche approves seeking death penalty in MS-13 murder case

Acting U S Attorney General Todd Blanche has authorized seeking the death penalty against three alleged MS13 members accused of killing a cooperating witness in Los Angeles marking a significant step in federal efforts against violent gang crimes

Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche has formally approved the pursuit of the death penalty against three individuals alleged to be members of the MS-13 criminal network, linked to the murder of a cooperating witness, as outlined in an official memorandum dated April 8. This directive was obtained by CBS News.

Instruction to Federal Prosecutors

As one of his initial actions in his capacity as acting attorney general, Blanche directed Bilal Essayli, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, to seek the death penalty against the following defendants:

• Roberto Carlos Aguilar
• Dennis Anaya Urias
• Grevil Zelaya Santiago

These individuals are charged under federal statutes for murder in aid of racketeering, connected to the homicide of a cooperating witness.

Details of the Alleged Incident

Federal authorities report that the victim had been assisting law enforcement prior to the attack and was intentionally targeted by MS-13 members. Urias and Santiago are accused of carrying out the shooting at a grocery store in South Los Angeles on February 18, 2025. The Department of Justice emphasized that the gang had issued a so-called "green light" order, designating the victim for murder because of his cooperation with authorities.

Sequence of Events

The Justice Department stated that roughly an hour before the killing, the victim encountered Aguilar at the same grocery store. Later that evening, the victim made two calls to law enforcement, reporting that MS-13 members had attempted to shoot him. During the first attempt, the firearm did not discharge. On the second call, multiple gunshots were reported.

Legal Consequences

The federal charges carry a mandatory life sentence if the defendants are convicted. With the acting attorney general’s recent authorization, the defendants are also now subject to capital punishment, making the death penalty a possible outcome.

Summary

• Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has approved the pursuit of the death penalty in a case involving three alleged MS-13 members.
• The charges are related to the killing of a witness cooperating with law enforcement in Los Angeles.
• The victim had been placed under a gang-issued "green light" due to his cooperation with authorities.
• The defendants face life imprisonment and potential execution if convicted.

Sources:

• CBS News
• The New York Times
• Fox News
• Acting AG Todd Blanche gives go-ahead to pursue death penalty in MS-13 murder case

Author: Logan Reeves
Logan Reeves is a sports analyst and journalist. He writes match reviews, conducts athlete interviews, and produces data-driven predictions.