Authorities arrest 42 people linked to California’s white supremacist gang on racketeering charges

Federal and local law enforcement officials have arrested 42 individuals linked to the SFV Peckerwoods, a white supremacist street gang based in California’s San Fernando Valley. The arrests stem from a 76-person federal grand jury indictment accusing them of participating in a range of illegal activities, including drug trafficking, firearm possession and COVID-19 benefits fraud.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated, “The Department of Justice has delivered a decisive blow to the San Fernando Valley (SFV) Peckerwoods,” highlighting their alleged involvement in distributing fentanyl and other drugs and committing financial fraud . The indictments target 68 defendants accused of violating several federal laws, including conspiracy under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act and various drug-related crimes.

The indictment outlines how members of the gang allegedly engaged in criminal enterprises led by both the Aryan Brotherhood and Mexican Mafia prison gangs. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California commented on the gang’s impact: “The Peckerwoods’ violent white supremacist ideology and broad criminal activities pose a serious threat to our community.”

Law enforcement seized large quantities of illegal firearms during their investigation, along with fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin. FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis emphasized the importance of this operation against racially motivated violent extremists: “This case goes to the heart of our collective mission to rid our communities of the corrosive elements that fuel violence and extremism.”

Among those charged are Claire Patricia Haviland, Brian Glenn Ekelund and Brianne Brewer, who allegedly operated drug stashes. They are accused of using digital payment platforms such as Zelle and CashApp for drug transactions.

In addition, defendants Sean Craig Gluckman and Maria Anna James engaged in fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program loans intended to assist businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Los Angeles Police Department Chief Dominic Choi emphasized ongoing efforts to combat organized crime: “Today is another example of how local, state and federal law enforcement agencies work together to investigate, arrest and prosecute criminals.”

If convicted, those charged face maximum penalties of up to life imprisonment. Investigations were conducted by multiple agencies, including the FBI, DEA, and Los Angeles Police Department, among others.

Anyone with information about COVID-19 related fraud can contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline or use their online complaint form.

An indictment is just an accusation; All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.