El Salvador Court Sentences 254 MS13 Gang Members to Up to 85 Years in Prison

In El Salvador, a criminal court has delivered sentences of up to 85 years in prison to 254 alleged members of the Mara Salvatrucha (MS13) gang. The convictions stem from a large-scale trial that concluded recently, marking a significant judicial action against organized crime in the country.

The convicted individuals are reportedly part of the 'Park View Locos Salvatruchos' cells, which operated across more than half of the Cabañas department between 2013 and 2022, allegedly terrorizing local residents. Among those sentenced is the cell's alleged leader, Eugenio Morales, known as 'Little Pesadilla,' who received an 85-year sentence for charges including illicit association, illegal firearm possession, and drug trafficking.

“

These gang members had different functions that allowed them to maintain control and thus facilitate their illicit activities in various areas of Cabañas.

The sentences were issued by the Second Court Against Organized Crime in San Salvador. The prosecution presented extensive evidence during a unique, single hearing that spanned over six weeks. This process utilized a reformed legal framework, implemented in December, which allows for the mass prosecution of entire criminal structures within a single case file.

This mass-trial model aims to expedite convictions by judging gang members based on their affiliation and hierarchy within the organization. While not all members of a gang are tried simultaneously, the system allows for future cases related to the same clique to be added. This approach is part of the government's broader strategy against gangs, enacted under a state of exception that has faced criticism for alleged human rights violations.

“

This modality allows for the prosecution of gang members for their membership in the organization, expediting convictions and keeping the process open to add future cases from the same clique (cell).