Maryland State Wire

Three alleged members of the MS-13 gang have appeared in the District of Maryland, facing charges related to a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) conspiracy involving murder and drug trafficking. According to court documents, Maxwell Ariel Quijano-Casco, Daniel Isaias Villanueva-Bautista, and Josue Mauricio Lainez are accused of killing a homeless man on July 4, 2024.

The incident occurred in Hyattsville, Maryland, where a passerby discovered the victim's body inside a blue Dodge Caravan. The investigation revealed that Quijano-Casco initially confronted the victim but returned with accomplices to allegedly commit the murder.

U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes stated, “The brutal retaliatory murder of this victim is a chilling reminder of the MS-13 gang’s callous disregard for human life.” Matthew R. Galeotti from the Justice Department’s Criminal Division emphasized their commitment to bringing violent criminals to justice.

The FBI arrested Quijano-Casco and Villanueva-Bautista on August 23. Quijano-Casco was found with a handgun and cocaine at the time of his arrest. He admitted involvement in the altercation but claimed self-defense.

If convicted, all three face up to life in prison for RICO conspiracy charges linked to murder. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on guidelines and statutory factors.

This case forms part of Operation Take Back America, aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling transnational criminal organizations. The U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages anyone with information about MS-13 to contact law enforcement through available tiplines.