A video showing members of a Milwaukee gang touting guns, cash and drugs was key evidence in the conviction of a 19-year-old Milwaukee man on gun and drug counts - specifically, the possession of cocaine with intent to sell and illegal gun possession.
The defendant was affiliated with a local gang, which used stolen cars as rolling drug houses across Milwaukee. The gang is believed to be taking advantage of the Milwaukee Police Department’s limits on pursuits, enabling them to deal drugs more easily on the streets.
The telling video, which is said to be one of many popping up on the internet, is thought to be a propaganda tool to recruit new gang members via social media. Young men can be seen waving guns around in a gesture meant to intimidate and demonstrate their ability to operate with impunity.
The defendant is seen in the video counting cash with what is described as a gun in his pocket. When police followed up, they discovered evidence of drug dealing at his girlfriend’s apartment linked to the suspect- 2 ounces of cocaine and a scale. When officers later arrested the man, he had a wad of 20’s adding up into the thousands and three cellphones.
The young man has been sentenced to 19 years in prison as a result of his actions, but Milwaukee Police Chief Edward Flynn claims state and federal sentencing is too light. He says the state needs tougher penalties for illegal possession of firearms to deter criminals in the future.
If you or a family member has been arrested for illegal possession of a firearm, drug possession or trafficking in the state of Wisconsin, you could be facing incarceration, stiff fines and a criminal record. it is important to work with an experienced team of lawyers to defend you against these charges. Contact the criminal defense Law Offices of Andrew C. Ladd LLC for help today.
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, “Police Chief Says Video of Young Men Waving Guns is Recruiting Tool”, by John Diedrich, August 31, 2015.
