Eight Alleged 18th Street Gang Members Face Major Charges for Spreading Terror in Queens

Coordinated Operation Leads to Indictment for Racketeering, Assaults, Drug Trafficking, and Fraud

In a major blow to organized crime in New York City, eight individuals believed to be members and associates of the notorious 18th Street gang have been indicted for a range of violent and criminal activities. The charges stem from a sweeping investigation that targeted the gang’s operations along Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights, Queens—a corridor they allegedly used as a stronghold for violence, extortion, and illicit business.

The Charges and Arrests

The indictment accuses the defendants of racketeering conspiracy involving narcotics and firearms trafficking, extortion, production and sale of fake identification documents, and counterfeit currency distribution. Seven of them face additional charges for assaults tied to gang activity, while one individual is accused of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Seven suspects were arrested in New York City and are scheduled for arraignment, while the eighth is already in custody on unrelated charges and will appear in court shortly.

Unmasking the 18th Street Gang’s Grip on Queens

Authorities describe the 18th Street gang as a violent transnational criminal organization with factions across the United States and Central America. The indicted individuals belong to the “54 Tiny Locos” clique, which allegedly enforced control over a bustling section of Queens through brutal violence and fear. The gang financed its activities through drug dealing, document fraud, counterfeit currency, and extortion—often charging “rent” to underground businesses, including unregulated brothels.

Among their most lucrative operations was the production and sale of fraudulent documents such as fake passports, Social Security cards, and driver’s licenses.

Chilling Accounts of Violence

December 2021 Attack

On New Year’s Eve 2021, members of the gang allegedly assaulted two men outside a Queens bar after questioning their gang affiliations. The victims were severely beaten, with one suffering nerve damage and deep facial lacerations after being struck with a tequila bottle.

January 2022 Stabbing

In January 2022, two victims were attacked outside another Queens bar. One man was stabbed in the lung while two attackers restrained him, and another was beaten with wooden planks, leaving both with serious injuries.

June 2024 Parking Lot Assault

In the most recent incident, members of the gang allegedly ambushed a man they mistook for a rival. The attackers used a bike lock and metal chair during the assault, inflicting head injuries that required medical treatment.

A Coordinated Crackdown on Violent Gangs

This case is part of a broader initiative aimed at dismantling violent criminal organizations that threaten community safety. Law enforcement agencies worked together to bring these charges, emphasizing their commitment to restoring security in Queens neighborhoods. The arrests, officials said, demonstrate their determination to protect residents from gang violence.

The Defendants

Felix Bonilla Ramos (aka Chabelo, Ferras), 36, Corona, NY

Uriel Lopez (aka Tanke), 30, Jackson Heights, NY

Refugio Martinez (aka Cuco), 32, Elmhurst, NY

Margarito Ortega (aka Pinocchio), 38, Elmhurst, NY

Orlando Ramirez (aka Niñote), 24, Elmhurst, NY

German Rodriguez (aka Loco), 34, Woodhaven, NY

David Vasquez Corona (aka Teba), 29, Elmhurst, NY

Marco Vidal Mendez (aka Matute), 36, formerly of Elmhurst, NY

Commitment to Justice

Authorities reiterated that these charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. The case is part of a wider federal strategy to target high-level criminal organizations through intelligence-driven, multi-agency operations.