On June 24, U.S. District Judge Hector Gonzalez handed down sentences for three suspected gang members who have all been convicted of violent racketeering offenses. According to reports, all three males were a part of a well-known violent gang in Brooklyn called Real Ryte.

The gang was responsible for numerous organized criminal incidents between 2015 and 2018. Reports suggest the gang committed assaults, bank fraud, wire fraud, and even murder.

Police say Sean Peart, a member of the Real Ryte gang, was shot in a violent incident with a rival group, Breadgang. In retaliation, the Real Ryte gang attempted to track down a member of the Breadgang on January 3, 2017. When they thought they had identified their target, they started to follow them. This led to a high-speed chase where one of Real Ryte gang members shot an innocent bystander who they believed to be a gang member.

One of the individuals sentenced was Semaj Smith, who goes by the street names “Bam Bam” and “Real Ryte Sport”. Smith was convicted of brandishing a firearm in the commission of a violent crime and participating in a racketeering conspiracy. As part of his sentence, he will need to serve 132 months in prison.

26-year-old Mark Waiters, who goes by the street name “Telly”, was convicted of participating in the high-speed chase and fatal shooting of the bystander and participating in other violent gang-related criminal acts. He was sentenced to serve 149 months in prison.

Dajahn McBean, who goes by the street name “Jeezy Mula”, was also sentenced to 150 months. He is considered the leader of Real Ryte. He was charged with directing violent retaliations against rival gang members and racketeering.

Reports show that all three individuals pleaded guilty to their charges.

Gang Violence in Brooklyn

Under New York law, gangs are considered organizations of three or more individuals that commit or conspire to commit organized criminal activity. Further, these individuals must have a defined leader and different member roles to be considered a gang. Gangs also use violence, threats, and intimidation to further their gang’s objectives and engage in crime for profit.

Unfortunately, several different organized criminal groups claim the streets of New York including the Bloods, Crips, MS-13, Latin Kings, Gangster Disciples, Real Ryte, and more.

It’s important to understand that any criminal charge you face will be upgraded to a more serious offense if you commit the crime while representing a gang. On top of that, it is its own unique criminal charge to even participate in a street gang. This offense is considered a Class E felony that could result in prison time of up to four years.

That said, you should always hire a Brooklyn criminal defense attorney if you are accused of participating in gang violence. You are likely facing significant prison time if you are found guilty. Hiring the right lawyer can help you make an informed decision on how to handle your defense strategy based on all your options.

Schedule a call with our team of defense attorneys now to discuss your charges with one of our legal representatives.