Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has authorized federal prosecutors to seek the death penalty for three alleged MS-13 gang members accused of murdering a cooperating witness in Los Angeles. The decision marks one of Blanche’s first major enforcement actions since assuming the role. The three defendants—Roberto Carlos Aguilar, Dennis Anaya Urias, and Grevil Zelaya Santiago—are charged with murder in aid of racketeering for the killing of a victim who had been assisting federal authorities.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
Blanche’s Decision: In a memo dated April 8, Blanche directed First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bilal Essayli to pursue capital punishment for the three defendants. The charges carry a mandatory life sentence and make the defendants eligible for the death penalty if convicted.
Case Details: Prosecutors allege the victim was marked for death by MS-13 after being identified as a government informant. Urias and Santiago allegedly carried out the shooting at a South Los Angeles grocery store on February 18, 2025. The victim reportedly called authorities twice before his death, stating that MS-13 members had tried to shoot him but the gun failed to fire. During the second call, gunshots were heard.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Administrative Context: Blanche’s decision followed the abrupt ouster of former Attorney General Pam Bondi, who reportedly delayed acting on the death penalty request, causing an administrative bottleneck. A source told the Washington Examiner that Bondi’s inaction led to the matter being unresolved.
Legal Background: The charges stem from the victim’s cooperation with federal authorities, which made him a target under MS-13’s “green light” order—a directive to murder informants. The case highlights the Justice Department’s stance on prosecuting transnational criminal organizations.
Policy Implications: The decision underscores the Justice Department’s approach to gang-related violence, particularly involving MS-13, a gang with ties to El Salvador and a significant presence in the U.S. The death penalty request may signal a tougher enforcement strategy under Blanche’s leadership.
Opposing Views: While some advocates support the death penalty in cases involving gang violence, others argue against its use, citing concerns over racial bias and the irreversibility of capital punishment. No official opposition to Blanche’s decision has been reported.
Long-Term Implications: The case could set a precedent for future prosecutions involving gang-related murders of informants. It also raises questions about the Justice Department’s priorities under interim leadership.