8 alleged Mexican Mafia prison gang members charged with attempted murder, extortion in Pomona

Eight alleged members of the Mexican Mafia prison gang have been charged in connection with an attempted murder and extortion scheme in Pomona that authorities say was orchestrated by high-ranking members of the organization, federal officials said.

In July, the victim was reportedly driving down a Pomona street when a person began to walk toward the vehicle while shooting 12 to 15 rounds from a handgun, the FBI said. Shots hit the vehicle at least three times and a nearby parked vehicle was hit at least four times.

The Mexican Mafia allegedly believed the victim of the attempted murder owed them a debt. The victim was placed on an “86” list by the Mexican Mafia, indicating that the victim could not enter Pomona or any illegal casinos operated by the gang, under threat of death. The gang also took the victim’s vehicle, the FBI said.

After the shooting, gang members apparently contacted the victim and demanded $2,000 to avoid further violence and for the return of the victim’s vehicle, authorities said.

During the investigation, authorities seized about $200,000 in cash, methamphetamine and 11 illegal “ghost guns,” which did not have serial numbers.

In addition to the eight Mexican Mafia members, one person was charged with assisting with the crime by cleaning up bullet casings after the shooting before police could collect them as evidence.

The Mexican Mafia associates are being charged for conspiracy to murder, attempted murder, shooting at an occupied vehicle and extortion depending on their role in the crime. Six men ranging in age from 25 to 56 are currently in custody, the FBI said. Authorities are still searching for Jeffrey Griffin, 44, of Montclair and David Arenas, 30, of Pomona.

One 47-year-old man also being charged in the conspiracy is already incarcerated for another charge.