Eugene Henley Jr., also known as “Big U,” a longtime leader of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips and an entertainment entrepreneur, has been charged in a federal complaint alleging that he led a criminal enterprise involved in murder, extortion, human trafficking, fraud, and other racketeering crimes, the U.S. Department of Justice announced.
Henley, 58, of South Los Angeles, is accused of operating a mafia-like organization under the name “Big U Enterprise” that used intimidation tactics and criminal activities to expand its influence.
He has been charged with conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. Two other alleged members of the criminal enterprise, Sylvester Robinson, 59, and Mark Martin, 50, were also arrested in connection with the case.
According to the criminal complaint, from 2010 to the present, Henley used his association with the Rollin’ 60s and other street gangs to control businesses and individuals through extortion. The complaint further alleges that Henley played a role in the 2021 murder of aspiring rapper “R.W.,” a former artist signed to his label, Uneek Music.
Henley allegedly traveled to Las Vegas to confront the victim over a song perceived as disrespectful, ultimately executing him and attempting to cover up the crime by removing security footage and silencing witnesses.
Federal authorities also accuse Henley of defrauding donors to his nonprofit organization, Developing Options, which was marketed as an anti-gang initiative but allegedly functioned as a front for illicit financial activities. The organization, which received funding from the City of Los Angeles’ Gang Reduction Youth Development (GRYD) program and private donors, including NBA players, allegedly served as a vehicle for Henley to embezzle funds.
“This case highlights the scope of criminal enterprises operating under the guise of community activism,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally. “These charges demonstrate our commitment to dismantling violent gangs that prey on our communities.”
The FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and multiple law enforcement agencies have been investigating the enterprise for over four years. In the past 24 hours, law enforcement arrested 10 members and associates of the Rollin’ 60s on various federal charges, including drug trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. Henley remains a fugitive.
If convicted, Henley faces a maximum sentence of life in federal prison, while his co-defendants could serve up to 20 years.
