Maryland MS-13 Members Charged in Murder and Drug Trafficking Cases
Kilmer Abrego Garcia, believed to be associated with the MS-13 gang in Maryland, is currently on trial in a notable criminal case. Meanwhile, three additional gang members have been charged with conspiracy, which includes serious offenses like murder and drug trafficking.
Deputy Attorney General Matthew Galeotti commented on the situation, stating that Garcia’s conduct “sparked the governance of MS-13 horrors across the Maryland community.”
The charges involve three Maryland residents: Maxwell Ariel Killanokasco, 24, Daniel Isayas Villanueva Bautista, 19, and Joss Emmauricio Rains, 21, all from Hyattsville. These men are accused of taking part in the murder of a homeless individual, allegedly carried out as an act of retaliation on July 4, 2024, as reported by the Department of Justice.
The victim’s body was discovered the following day inside a blue Dodge Caravan parked in Hyattsville.
Garcia remains in custody while the judge processes the case.
According to the DOJ, surveillance footage captures the accused opening the doors of the van where the victim was, seemingly engaging in a violent confrontation. The video reportedly shows the victim swing a pole before running away, only to return with others who then assaulted someone inside the vehicle.
Law enforcement discovered the victim the next day, appearing to have sustained a stab wound to the neck.
The DOJ stated that Killanokasco and Villanueva-Bautista were arrested by Prince George’s County police on August 23. During the arrest, one suspect was found in possession of a semi-automatic handgun and a small amount of cocaine. Both suspects reportedly acknowledged their involvement in the argument leading to the murder, with one allegedly admitting to handling a knife during the incident.
These three individuals face charges related to conspiracy and murder. If found guilty, they could receive lengthy prison sentences.
Galeotti emphasized the tragedy surrounding this “meaningless murder,” suggesting that it was conducted to gain status within the gang and advance drug operations. He noted the broad implications of their actions on the MS-13 presence in Maryland.
Maryland attorney Kelly Hayes referred to the crime as “cruel retaliation murder,” highlighting it as a despicable reminder of the gang’s blatant disregard for life. She assured the community that her office would collaborate with law enforcement to dismantle such criminal networks further.
In related reports, Abrego Garcia, 29, has been implicated in a human smuggling operation linked to the MS-13 gang. Described as a full-time smuggler, he is accused of having facilitated the transport of numerous individuals across the U.S., including women and children. Arrested in Hyattsville back in October 2019, he was identified by the police as a member of MS-13. The operation he allegedly participated in has been ongoing for nearly a decade.
