Agents testified in court gang graffiti had increased dramatically in the Holland area indicating violence may be intended toward police and rival gang members since the 31 men were listed in the indictment.
It’s one of the largest gang crackdowns we’ve seen in West Michigan and now the men accused are starting to appear in federal court.
Thursday, during detention hearings, a special agent took the stand and accused Ramon Morales of being a former “Inca” or chapter leader in the Holland Latin Kings.
They also accused Joseph Menchaca, 27, of being a treasurer in the gang.
Their testimony gave us a look at what gang life might be like in Holland.
Prosecutors accused Ramon Morales, 36, of distributing or selling cocaine and possessing a medical marijuana card and pot plants.
Special agents testified the sale of cocaine and marijuana was part of Latin King gang life and it was common for members to get a medical marijuana card, which Morales had.
Other drugs like heroin or acid were not prohibited in the gang.
Agents claim the men also attended gang meetings called servicios.
Authorities say the gang often met in public parks where surveillance would be more difficult.
Informants said gang members were strip-searched before each meeting to make sure nobody was wearing a wire and there was a gang prayer recited, referencing that members were “360 degrees strong.”
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