A key figure in the notorious Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips gang, Eugene Henley Jr., also known as “Big U,” has been charged in a sweeping federal complaint that alleges he ran a violent criminal enterprise involved in a wide range of illicit activities, including murder, extortion, human trafficking, fraud, and more. Henley, a self-proclaimed community activist and entertainment entrepreneur, is accused of leading the “Big U Enterprise” – a mafia-like operation that exploited his long-standing influence within the Rollin’ 60s gang to engage in organized crime across Los Angeles.
Henley, 58, who is currently a fugitive, is charged with conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, along with two other alleged members of the criminal network, Sylvester Robinson, 59, and Mark Martin, 50. Both Robinson and Martin were arrested on the same charges and are expected to make their initial court appearances.
Federal prosecutors highlighted the shocking nature of the charges, noting that Henley’s criminal activities ran counter to his public persona as an anti-gang activist. “The allegations in the complaint unsealed today reveal a criminal enterprise that engaged in murder, extortion, human trafficking, and fraud – all led by a supposed anti-gang activist and purported music entrepreneur who was nothing more than a violent street criminal,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally.
Henley’s gang, the “Big U Enterprise,” is accused of using violence and intimidation to expand its influence and control over businesses and individuals in Los Angeles. The enterprise allegedly murdered an aspiring rap musician in 2021 after the victim, identified in court documents as “R.W.,” recorded a song critical of Henley. Henley allegedly drove R.W. to Nevada, shot him in the head, and left his body in a desert ditch.
The investigation revealed that Henley used his position in the music industry to further his criminal activities, including defrauding a nonprofit charity he ran, Developing Options, which was supposed to provide alternatives to gang life for South Los Angeles youth. Instead, Henley allegedly embezzled funds from donations, including those from prominent sources like NBA players and the City of Los Angeles.
FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis condemned the actions, stating that the investigation, which spanned four years, revealed how Henley and his associates had exploited their influence and connections to perpetuate a culture of crime and violence. Law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation include the FBI, the IRS, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the North Las Vegas Police Department.
If convicted, Henley faces a maximum sentence of life in federal prison, while Robinson and Martin could each face up to 20 years. Authorities say. the investigation and arrests mark a significant step forward in the effort to dismantle organized crime in Los Angeles, as authorities continue to target gang leaders and their criminal networks.
