Florida officials revealed on Monday that the leader of the “Sex, Money, Murder” gang has been convicted, concluding a lengthy investigation into a violent criminal organization.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, accompanied by Florida Attorney General James Usmeyer and other state representatives, stated that they dismantled the gang’s hierarchy, which is affiliated with the Bloods.
“If you’re thinking about engaging in dangerous gang activities, Florida isn’t the place for it,” Judd remarked. “And really, don’t even think about doing it in Polk County. Seriously?”
Hernando Thompson, also known as T. Murda, was found guilty on 17 felony counts, including racketeering and conspiracy, and could face up to five life sentences.
Prosecutors asserted that Thompson managed various gang operations, from drug trafficking to armed assaults, while keeping himself at a distance from direct involvement.
Usmeyer described Thompson as a “bad man and a violent man,” emphasizing their commitment to community safety at all costs.
Investigators utilized court-approved wiretaps, intercepting over 4,700 communications about criminal activities, alongside search warrants that led to the confiscation of firearms, protective gear, and approximately $1.5 million worth of narcotics.
Officials detailed instances of violence linked to the gang, including an incident where members allegedly aimed guns at young children, including an 8-year-old and a 3-month-old, during a home invasion.
“The victim’s survival was simply because he fled in the dead of night,” Judd noted. “We’ve also detained him on other charges to ensure his safety until we finish the investigation.”
During the press conference, Judd highlighted Thompson’s extensive criminal record, which spans over two decades and comprises 14 prior felonies, 10 misdemeanors, and two prison sentences. Thompson is currently in Polk County Jail awaiting sentencing, set for February 20th.
Judd expressed frustration with the justice system, questioning why Thompson was granted bail during the ongoing investigation. “I can’t believe the judge who let him go. When he’s out of prison, he’s out committing more crimes.”
The investigation has also expanded beyond Florida, identifying key players in North Carolina and South Carolina, indicating that further legal actions may ensue.
Usmeyer underscored the state’s aggressive stance on crime, emphasizing lengthy prison sentences for violent offenders. “We want him to spend the rest of his life behind bars,” he stated. “Allowing drugs, firearms, and violence to infiltrate our communities is a risk we cannot afford to take.”
Concluding, Judd directed a pointed message to criminals: “If you’re determined to commit crimes without any remorse, perhaps you should consider places like California, New York, or New Jersey. Florida is not the place for that.”
