In a major law enforcement operation, a federal indictment was unveiled in Georgia accusing 30 individuals linked to the Sex Money Murder (SMM) gang with a range of serious crimes.
This crackdown shines a spotlight on how this violent gang has wreaked havoc both on the streets and inside prisons across the Savannah area and beyond.
Charges Include Racketeering, Murder, Fraud, and More
The indictment, filed in the Southern District of Georgia, charges these 30 defendants—members and associates of the notorious SMM gang—with multiple offenses.
These include racketeering conspiracy under the RICO statute, murder and attempted murder tied to racketeering activities, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and various firearm and drug trafficking crimes.
Extreme Violence and Ruthless Control Within the Gang
Court documents reveal that the SMM gang enforces its own brutal rules with deadly consequences.
One chilling example involves the killing of a 19-year-old member who wanted out of the gang.
Another member was viciously attacked in jail for allegedly violating gang codes.
This violent retaliation serves as a warning to others who might challenge the gang’s authority.
Drug Trafficking and Fraud Fuel the Gang’s Operations
Beyond violence, the SMM gang has profited by trafficking massive amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin throughout the Savannah metropolitan area.
Additionally, the gang engaged in sophisticated fraud schemes targeting federal COVID-19 relief and unemployment benefits, stealing over $850,000 from these programs intended to help vulnerable Americans.
Officials Highlight the Impact and Commitment to Justice
Matthew Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, described the gang’s actions as “brutal” and emphasized the government’s determination to dismantle criminal organizations like SMM.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tara M. Lyons added that this indictment is a critical step in curbing gang violence both on the streets and within prison walls.
FBI Special Agent Paul Brown expressed sympathy for the victims and underscored the FBI’s daily efforts to combat violent crime.
Meanwhile, officials from the ATF, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and Department of Corrections highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts across agencies to disrupt the gang’s illegal activities and protect public safety.
A Deadly Example of Gang Retribution
One particularly horrifying incident described in the indictment involved Byron Hopkins and other SMM members ambushing a young victim shortly after he got off his school bus in 2020.
The victim had reportedly wanted to leave the gang after accusing a leader of inappropriate conduct.
Deceived by a trusted gang “big brother,” he was lured to a remote area and fatally shot—a stark example of the gang’s deadly enforcement of loyalty.
The Origins and Reach of Sex Money Murder
SMM is a violent offshoot of the larger Bloods gang, which originated in Los Angeles in the early 1970s.
Over time, SMM has spread from New York to various East Coast states, including Georgia.
The indictment reveals that SMM operates extensively inside and outside correctional facilities, with several defendants coordinating crimes while incarcerated.
Severe Penalties Await if Convicted
If found guilty, these defendants face serious sentences.
Charges related to murder and firearms could mean life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
Other crimes, including racketeering and drug trafficking, carry decades behind bars.
This case is a major blow to a gang that has terrorized communities and prisons alike.
A Collaborative Effort Across Multiple Agencies
The investigation is a joint effort involving the FBI, ATF, U.S. Department of Labor, Army Criminal Investigation Division, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and many local law enforcement agencies.
Together, they are working to dismantle the gang’s network and hold its members accountable.
What’s Next in the Legal Process
Trial attorneys from the Justice Department’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are prosecuting the case.
The indictment comes from a larger Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force initiative aimed at tackling top-level criminal organizations that threaten public safety.
As with all indictments, the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.