High-ranking MS-13 leader arraigned on terrorism charges in federal court

April 25, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

The Eastern District of New York Federal Courthouse in Central Islip, where MS-13 leader Fredy Ivan Jandres-Parada was arraigned on serious terrorism charges. Photo: Americasroof via Wikimedia Commons

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Fredy Ivan Jandres-Parada, also known as “Lucky de Park View,” was arraigned on Friday at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, New York, and is facing serious terrorism charges as a leading figure in the notorious MS-13 gang.

This indictment, led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, accuses Jandres-Parada of directing the gang’s criminal activities across the United States, El Salvador, Mexico and other locations.

Jandres-Parada, who has been a fugitive since being indicted in December 2020, was recently captured by the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations. He is charged with multiple offenses, including conspiracy to provide and conceal material support to terrorists and conspiracy to finance terrorism. His capture marks a significant achievement in the ongoing effort to dismantle MS-13’s operations.

According to authorities, Jandres-Parada played a crucial role in establishing a command structure for MS-13, enabling the gang to carry out coordinated criminal activities even while many of its leaders were imprisoned. His activities reportedly included negotiating with Salvadoran government officials to obtain concessions for the gang and utilizing public displays of violence to influence civilian populations and government actions.

Jandres-Parada’s arrest was the result of a major effort from various U.S. law enforcement agencies, showing their dedication to tackling international criminal organizations like MS-13. The wide-ranging operation required cooperation across different states and agencies to bring him into custody.

His court appearance sheds light on the severe and broad activities of MS-13, stressing the government’s continuous push to dismantle such groups. If Jandres-Parada is found guilty, he could face life in prison, underscoring the gravity of his alleged crimes.