In a striking reminder that organized crime is alive and well, two high-ranking leaders of the Gorilla Stone Nation Bloods Gang were sentenced to 35 years in prison this week, signaling a major law enforcement victory. Dwight Reid, also known as “Dick Wolf,” and Christopher Erskine, or “Beagle,” were convicted of racketeering and drug trafficking charges in a New York courtroom. The two leaders oversaw a violent and highly organized operation spanning several states, including New York and Florida, that involved drug dealing, murders, and fraud.
Reid, the founder and prison leader of Gorilla Stone, and Erskine, who directed street operations, ran an extensive criminal network with chapters known as “Caves.” The gang’s reach extended from New York to Florida, where its violent activities were evident. Notably, the gang was involved in a shooting outside a Miami strip club in October 2020, which left two rival gang members injured. In another disturbing incident, gang members opened fire during a house party in Miami in July 2020.
The gang, established over two decades ago, is known for its strict internal hierarchy and brutal enforcement tactics. Beyond traditional drug trafficking, Gorilla Stone was involved in a range of illicit activities, including a COVID-19 unemployment benefits fraud scheme.
Thanks to coordinated efforts from local police departments and federal agencies, all 21 individuals charged in the case have been convicted. Sentences for those involved range from three to 35 years in prison, with the majority of the gang’s leadership now incarcerated.
The convictions of Reid and Erskine serve as a clear warning to other criminal organizations, especially in Florida. “Reid and Erskine’s convictions and long sentences, along with the successful prosecution of several senior members of the gang, send a strong message that gang leaders will face significant prison time,” stated U.S. Attorney Damian Williams.
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