A purported leader of a Los Angeles street gang facing charges of murder, kidnapping, and extortion was set to make a court appearance on Thursday following his surrender to federal authorities and a video proclaiming his innocence. Eugene Henley Jr., also known as “Big U,” is among 18 individuals affiliated with the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips who are implicated in various federal offenses like drug trafficking, conspiracy, and firearms violations, according to the U.S. attorney’s office statement released on Wednesday. Prior to turning himself in, the self-proclaimed community advocate recorded videos refuting the allegations. Henley’s federal court hearing was slated for Thursday afternoon, as per the federal prosecutors’ office. The Associated Press was unable to locate legal representation for Henley. Henley, aged 58, along with two others, is charged with violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). Allegedly, Henley orchestrated a criminal enterprise referred to as the “Big U Enterprise” and is accused of misappropriating funds from Developing Options, an anti-gang charity he established, to conceal fraudulent activities and shield members from law enforcement scrutiny. Prosecutors also link him to the 2021 murder of a musician signed to his record label, Uneek Music. Prosecutors describe Henley as operating the enterprise akin to a mafia boss, leveraging his reputation and longstanding ties with street gangs to coerce businesses and individuals in Los Angeles. If found guilty, he could potentially face life imprisonment in a federal facility.
