Acting Attorney General Authorizes Death Penalty for MS-13 Members

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has authorized federal prosecutors in California to seek the death penalty for three alleged members of the MS-13 gang—Roberto Carlos Aguilar, Dennis Anaya Urias, and Grevil Zelaya Santiago—charged with the murder of a victim who was cooperating with authorities. This decision, made in a memo dated April 8, 2026, represents one of Blanche's first significant actions since assuming the role of acting attorney general.

Acting AG Authorizes Death Penalty for Alleged MS-13 MurderCBS NewsWashington Examiner

The three defendants are accused of executing the victim, who had been marked for death by MS-13 due to his cooperation with law enforcement. The murder occurred on February 18, 2025, at a grocery store in South Los Angeles. Prosecutors allege that Urias and Santiago carried out the shooting, while Aguilar had a chance encounter with the victim shortly before the incident. The victim had alerted authorities about an earlier attempt on his life by MS-13 members, during which a gun malfunctioned. In a subsequent call to law enforcement, gunshots could be heard in the background, indicating the imminent danger he faced.

CBS NewsActing AG Authorizes Death Penalty for Alleged MS-13 MurderWashington Examiner

The charges against the three men include murder in aid of racketeering, a federal offense that carries a mandatory life sentence and makes them eligible for the death penalty if convicted. The Justice Department has emphasized that the pursuit of the death penalty underscores its commitment to combating the violent tactics employed by MS-13, particularly against individuals who assist law enforcement.

Acting AG Authorizes Death Penalty for Alleged MS-13 Murder

In his memo, Todd Blanche directed First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, Bilal Essayli, to pursue capital punishment for the defendants. This decision follows the ousting of former Attorney General Pam Bondi, who reportedly delayed the decision-making process regarding the death penalty. The Justice Department's announcement highlights the seriousness with which it views the threats posed by gang violence and the targeting of cooperating witnesses.

Washington Examiner

While the decision to seek the death penalty aligns with the federal government's aggressive stance against MS-13, it has drawn criticism from various advocacy groups concerned about the implications of capital punishment. Critics argue that the death penalty is not an effective deterrent against crime and raises ethical questions regarding its application.

Washington Examiner

The defendants are scheduled for arraignment on June 3, 2026, following their initial appearances in federal court, where they were ordered detained without bond. The process for making a final recommendation on the death penalty will involve a thorough internal review before it reaches the attorney general's desk for a final determination.

Washington Examiner

• “What they’re saying “We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.” — Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

Acting AG Authorizes Death Penalty for Alleged MS-13 Murder

This case illustrates the ongoing challenges posed by gang violence in the United States and the federal government's commitment to addressing these issues through stringent legal measures.

Washington Examiner