Federal authorities are searching for Eugene Henley Jr., known as "Big U," a longtime leader of the Rollin' 60s Neighborhood Crips in Los Angeles.
Henley, 58, is accused of running a mafia-like criminal operation involving murder, human trafficking, extortion, and fraud while presenting himself as an entertainment entrepreneur and anti-gang activist.
Henley is one of 18 gang members charged with federal crimes, including drug trafficking, conspiracy, and firearms offenses. While ten members were arrested, Henley and two others remain fugitives. Prosecutors allege he used his non-profit, Developing Options, as a front for fraudulent activities and to shield gang members from law enforcement scrutiny.
Authorities link Henley to the 2021 murder of an aspiring rapper, identified as "R.W.," who was signed to his record label, Uneek Music. R.W. was allegedly killed after recording a song critical of Henley, with his body later discovered in a Nevada desert ditch.
Prosecutors claim Henley operated his criminal enterprise like a mob boss, using intimidation and violence while leveraging social media, documentaries, and interviews to enhance his gang's reputation. He is also accused of orchestrating extortion, illegal gambling, and sex trafficking operations, as well as fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 relief funds.
If convicted, Henley faces a potential life sentence in federal prison. Authorities continue to seek his whereabouts.
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