Memphis, TN — Six purported members of the “Unknown Vice Lords – Ghost Mob” gang have been indicted at the federal level regarding a violent retaliatory shooting that took place in a Memphis neighborhood. The nine-count indictment, which was unsealed on Thursday in the Western District of Tennessee, accuses the defendants of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and several firearms offenses.
Federal prosecutors claim that the group participated in a gang-related assault that left a residential area peppered with bullets during the early hours of September 7, 2020. This incident was allegedly in retaliation for a shooting that occurred the day before, in which rival gang members reportedly injured four individuals associated with the UVL Ghost Mob.
Violent Retaliation Caught on Camera
According to court documents, the defendants — armed with assault-style rifles and wearing masks and gloves — opened fire on a rival gang member’s home, discharging between 40 and 50 rounds into the residence. Security footage from the neighborhood captured the gunmen arriving at the scene, using and discharging multiple firearms during the attack.
Defendants Identified
The individuals charged in the indictment are:
- Antwon Brown, aka Yayo, 32, of Memphis
- Cordera Douglas, aka Chuckie Dee, 36, of Memphis
- Willie Merriweather, 41, of Antioch
- Tevin Richardson, aka Santana, 34, of Memphis
- Ricky Rogers, Jr., aka Double R or RR, 32, of Memphis
- Laraveus Williams, aka Ray Ray, 32, of Memphis
If found guilty, the defendants could be looking at significant prison sentences. Assault with a dangerous weapon in connection with racketeering can lead to a maximum of 20 years behind bars. Meanwhile, attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder related to racketeering can result in up to 10 years. Additionally, a charge for firing a weapon during a violent crime comes with a mandatory minimum of 10 years, which must be served consecutively with any other penalties.
“This violent gang assault in a residential neighborhood shows an appalling disregard for public safety,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti. “We remain committed to dismantling violent gangs and protecting law-abiding citizens.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Jamey VanVliet of the Nashville Field Division added, “The premeditated and horrendous acts of violence committed by these gang members demonstrate a clear threat to human life. We will continue to pursue and prosecute violent offenders before they strike again.”
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
