Long Sentences for Criminal Leaders
The Third Court Against Organized Crime of San Salvador recently handed down sentences of up to 60 years in prison to key members of the 18 Revolucionarios gang, which was active in the San Vicente department. The court convicted them of forming illicit groups detrimental to public peace, confirming the severity of their crimes.
Key Figures Convicted
Among the prominent convicted leaders are Santos Elias Hernandez known as “Tamborín”, Rene Aníbal Villalta (alias “Old Cat”), and Edwin Salvador Torres Servellón (alias “Smaylin”). These individuals were crucial in overseeing and coordinating the gang’s illegal operations, with Tamborín notably serving as the gang’s first voice in San Vicente.
Severity of Crimes
The court characterized their actions as not just a series of unlawful activities, but as systematic attacks on community safety and peace. Each of these high-ranking members was involved in planning and executing strategies that posed considerable threats to local residents.
Additional Sentences for Other Members
In addition to the main leaders, José Nelson López Rogel (alias “Chino”) received a 55-year sentence for illegal possession of firearms and his role in illicit groups. The court also sentenced Walter Vladimir Zapata Torres to 45 years for illegal possession and illicit group activities, while Carlos Aquiles Ramirez received 40 years under similar charges.
Wider Implications for Criminal Activity in El Salvador
The court’s ruling did not stop at the leaders; 45 gang members holding the rank of homeboy and 27 civilian collaborators were also sentenced to 30 years each for supporting the criminal organization. This illustrates the substantial network that the 18 Revolucionarios gang maintained, contributing to rampant insecurity and criminal activities, such as extortion and arms trafficking.
The judicial actions taken by the Third Court Against Organized Crime represent a concerted effort to dismantle organized crime in El Salvador. These arrests were conducted under the Exception Regime, a government strategy aimed at reducing gang violence and increasing community safety.