Delaware Prosecutors Secure 100% Conviction Rate in Multi-Year Gang Prosecution

Strategic Insights -

Delaware prosecutors announced a landmark victory in their long-running case against the violent gang MGS, securing a 100% conviction rate with more than 100 years of confirmed prison time and multiple potential life sentences for the defendants. The State's efforts have been instrumental in reducing gun violence in Delaware, with a 30% decrease in statewide shootings since 2020, including a 50% decline in summer shootings and a 60% reduction in Wilmington homicides.

Key Takeaways:

  • The State's four-year prosecution against the MGS gang resulted in a 100% conviction rate, with all 20 defendants found guilty of various charges, including murder, gang participation, and conspiracy.
  • The convictions cumulatively secured over 100 years of confirmed prison time, with multiple defendants facing potential life sentences.
  • The investigation, led by Det. Devon Jones of the Wilmington Police Department, identified 19 defendants involved with MGS or aligned gangs, as well as a non-MGS member who contracted a Dover killing.
  • The crimes included four murders, a six-victim mass shooting, six additional shooting incidents, a robbery, and numerous gun offenses.
  • The convictions were secured by Deputy Attorneys General Jamie McCloskey, Erika Flaschner, and AJ Hill, with significant contributions from the Wilmington Police Department, Delaware State Police, and other law enforcement agencies.
  • The DOJ's efforts were led by Attorney General Kathy Jennings, who praised the dedication and partnership of the law enforcement agencies involved.
  • Deonte Robinson, the final defendant, was convicted of Murder 2nd Degree, Gang Participation, Conspiracy 1st Degree, and Conspiracy 2nd Degree, and faces 15 years to life at sentencing.

Statistics:

  • 100% conviction rate in the multi-year gang prosecution against MGS
  • Over 100 years of cumulative prison time secured by the convictions
  • 50% decline in summer shootings in Delaware since 2020
  • 60% reduction in Wilmington homicides since 2020
  • 30% decrease in statewide shootings in Delaware since 2020
  • 19 defendants identified as being involved with MGS or aligned gangs
  • 4 murders, 1 six-victim mass shooting, 6 additional shooting incidents, 1 robbery, and numerous gun offenses committed by the defendants
  • 20 defendants convicted under the prosecution, with multiple facing potential life sentences

Sources:

  • The Delaware Department of Justice
  • The Wilmington Police Department
  • The Delaware State Police
  • The FBI
  • The ATF