Gang extortion charges filed in alleged shakedown of Los Angeles food vendors
Two alleged gang members pleaded not guilty last week to extorting money from food-truck vendors, the L.A. Times reported.
Gang charges in Los Angeles always require an experienced L.A. criminal defense attorney. Gang enhancements can result in stiffer penalties for conviction. And being associated with a gang, even once, can result in legal problems for years to come. In many cases, prosecutors will attempt to push a gang connection where none exist -- associating with the wrong person or wearing the wrong colors can result in being tagged with an unwarranted gang affiliation.
In this case, two defendants are being accused of demanding $50 a week in rent from vendors in the area patrolled by the LAPD's 77th Street Station. Those who refused, were allegedly threatened. In one case, a large rock was thrown through the front window of a truck, according to the Los Angeles county district attorney's office.
Historically, gang members have been accused of extorting money from vendors, taxi drivers, drug dealers and prostitutes. Authorities also report that higher level gang members are protected by low-level members who collect the money.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported the two defendants, ages 19 and 24, pleaded not guilty to six counts of attempted extortion and one count each of vandalism. Bail in both cases was set at more than $250,000.
The Contra Costa Times reports the 19-year-old is also charged with two counts of criminal threats for allegedly using a handgun. Both defendants have previous criminal convictions, including robbery, vehicle theft and receiving stolen property.
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