LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Federal prosecutors have charged three members of the notorious Mara Salvatrucha-13 (MS-13) gang with murder in aid of racketeering for the cold-blooded killing of Herlyn Barrientos, a government informant.
The Victim and the Crime
Herlyn Barrientos, 47, had been cooperating with the FBI after being caught in a massive federal sweep targeting MS-13 meth dealers in 2023. After his release from prison, he began informing on his former gang members, making him a target.
Barrientos was murdered on February 18 at a South Los Angeles grocery store. His FBI handler heard the gunfire live over the phone as Barrientos was being confronted by three MS-13 members.
The Accused
Dennis Anaya Urias, 26, and Grevil Zelaya Santiago, 25, both from South Los Angeles, face federal charges of murder in aid of racketeering, which can carry life imprisonment or the death penalty. Roberto Carlos Aguilar, 30, is charged separately with the same crime.
The three allegedly carried out a “greenlight”—a murder contract—ordered because Barrientos was cooperating with law enforcement.
Gang Background and Investigation
MS-13 is a transnational gang originating in Los Angeles in the 1980s, with tens of thousands of members across the U.S. and Central America, especially El Salvador. The gang is known for brutal violence, especially against informants.
Despite major federal takedowns in cities like Boston, MS-13 continues to operate heavily in Southern California.
Court Proceedings and Future Dates
The accused hitmen remain held without bail. Their next federal court appearance is scheduled for June 3.
Source Attribution
Information sourced from:
- U.S. Department of Justice statements
- FBI affidavits and court filings
- Local and national news reports