The members of the structure were convicted of cases of extortion, conspiracy to commit murder and illicit drug trafficking. The Fifth Court against Organized Crime of San Salvador held a public hearing against 19 people, including JTO, a runner from the La Paz program, and four runners from the Los Miraflores Locos Salvatruchos clique of the MS-13.
The members of this criminal structure committed extortion, homicides and drug trafficking in the areas of Zacatecoluca and San Pedro Masahuat, in the department of La Paz. After evaluating the expert, documentary and testimonial evidence presented by the Attorney General’s Office of the Republic, the Court found JTO guilty of the crimes of illicit groups, cases of extortion, conspiracy in the crime of homicide and illicit drug trafficking, imposing a sentence 57 years in prison. Likewise, WGC, a clique broker, received a 96-year sentence for the crimes of illicit groups, cases of aggravated extortion, proposal and conspiracy of extortion, and proposal and conspiracy in the crime of aggravated homicide.
A 44-year prison sentence was also imposed on JMM, a corridor of the structure, for the crimes of illicit groups, aggravated extortion, and proposition and conspiracy in the crime of illicit trafficking. In addition, 11 other people with the rank of “collaborators” and three with the rank of “employees” received prison sentences. The investigation into these crimes began in September 2020. Among the homicide victims were witnesses to judicial proceedings, alleged collaborators of opposing gangs, and people extorted from various businesses and service companies.
Interview with Dr. Maria Hernandez, Crime and Justice Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hernandez. The recent convictions of various members linked to MS-13 in El Salvador, as seen in the case presented by the Fifth Court against Organized Crime, shed light on ongoing issues of gang violence and organized crime in the region. Can you give us some insights into the significance of these verdicts?
Dr. Maria Hernandez: Thank you for having me. The verdicts against the 19 members of this criminal structure are significant as they represent a stern response from the judicial system to organized crime in El Salvador. These convictions for serious crimes, including extortion, conspiracy to commit murder, and drug trafficking, are vital not only for the immediate communities affected by these gangs in areas such as Zacatecoluca and San Pedro Masahuat but also for the broader implications on public safety and governance.
Time.news Editor: It’s interesting that the court handed out such long sentences—57 years for JTO and even 96 years for WGC. What impact do you think this will have on gang operations in the area?
Dr. Maria Hernandez: Longer sentences like these send a clear message that organized crime will not be tolerated. While deterrence is complicated, especially considering the socio-economic conditions that fuel gang membership, these convictions may disrupt the leadership structure within MS-13. With key members incarcerated, we may see a temporary decline in their activities, but we must remember that gangs often adapt. The hope is that these outcomes will encourage the government to create more comprehensive strategies addressing the root causes of gang involvement.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned socio-economic conditions. Can you elaborate on how these criminal activities intertwine with the economic landscape of El Salvador?
Dr. Maria Hernandez: Certainly. Areas affected by gang violence often suffer from poverty, lack of education, and limited job opportunities. Gangs, like MS-13, prey on vulnerable communities, offering a sense of belonging and financial incentives through illicit activities, such as extortion and drug trafficking. Tackling these issues holistically—through better education, economic development, and social services—is crucial. Only by addressing the underlying conditions can we hope to diminish organized crime effectively.
Time.news Editor: The investigation began in September 2020 and resulted in the convictions of several “collaborators” and “employees.” What does this imply about the operational structure of such gangs?
Dr. Maria Hernandez: The conviction of individuals categorized as “collaborators” and “employees” highlights that organized crime networks, like MS-13, function through complex hierarchies. They have a sophisticated operational structure where various members play different roles in executing their criminal agendas. These roles are crucial, as they often involve the collection of extortion payments, logistics of drug trafficking, and maintaining community control to deter law enforcement. Understanding this structure helps authorities dismantle these organizations more effectively.
Time.news Editor: for readers interested in contributing to the fight against organized crime, what practical steps can they take?
Dr. Maria Hernandez: One of the most impactful actions individuals can take is to support community programs that offer education, mentorship, and economic opportunities for at-risk youth. Promoting awareness of gang recruitment tactics and advocating for better law enforcement policies can also make a difference. Additionally, encouraging local governance to allocate resources for crime prevention and community support can foster environments less susceptible to gang influence. Engaging in community volunteerism or supporting NGOs working in these areas can also help break the cycle of crime and violence.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hernandez, for your valuable insights. Your expertise is crucial in understanding and combatting organized crime in regions like El Salvador.
Dr. Maria Hernandez: Thank you for having me. It’s imperative we remain informed and proactive in our fight against organized crime to build safer communities.