CHICAGO, IL – A high-ranking member of the Latin Kings street gang has been arrested and charged in federal court for allegedly soliciting the murder of a senior law enforcement official involved in a federal immigration enforcement operation, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois.
Juan Espinoza Martinez, 37, of Chicago, faces one count of murder-for-hire following his arrest Monday morning. A criminal complaint unsealed in U.S. District Court details how Martinez allegedly used Snapchat to offer cash bounties for the killing of a federal officer connected to “Operation Midway Blitz,” an immigration enforcement effort led by U.S. Border Patrol.
Messages offered payment for officer’s death
According to investigators, Martinez sent messages reading “2k on information when you get him” and “10k if u take him down,” alongside a photo of the targeted senior law enforcement official. Federal authorities say the official had participated in recent immigration operations in the Chicago area.
Martinez is described as a ranking member of the Latin Kings, a gang long associated with violent crimes and narcotics trafficking throughout the Midwest.
DOJ officials condemn threats against officers
“Placing a bounty on the head of a federal officer is an attack on the rule of law and on every American who depends on law enforcement to keep them safe,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The Department of Justice will never allow violent gangs to target those who protect our borders and our communities.”
U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros called the alleged plot “a line that can never be crossed,” adding that his office “will ensure no federal officer has to fear for their life for doing their job.”
HSI and federal partners led joint investigation
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Chicago, with assistance from other federal agencies. HSI Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. Scarpino said the arrest demonstrates the agency’s determination to dismantle violent criminal organizations that threaten public safety.
If convicted, Martinez faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the murder-for-hire charge.