NEWARK, NJ — A member of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips appeared in court June 16 on charges that include attempted murder and murder as part of a RICO conspiracy, acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced the day of the court appearance.
Elijah Williams, aka “Lil Smith,” 21; Jason Franklin, aka “Freak” and “OG Freak,” 37; and Tre Byrd, aka “Bands” and “G Bandz,” 20, all of Newark, are charged by indictment with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations conspiracy. Williams was arraigned June 16 before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton in Newark federal court. Byrd was arraigned on June 9 before Judge Wigenton. Franklin remains at large.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, Williams, Franklin and Byrd are allegedly members and associates of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips. On Sept. 25, 2018, Williams allegedly shot at four individuals in Newark, striking two. All of the victims survived the attack. On March 20, 2019, in Irvington, allegedly aided and abetted by Franklin and Byrd, Williams reportedly fatally shot another victim. On June 20, 2020, in Newark, Byrd reportedly worked with another member and associate of the gang to rob another victim at gunpoint.
All of the defendants face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proved guilty.
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