Police bust drug ring, over a dozen gang members sentenced

ST. LOUIS – Federal agents around St. Louis announced a coordinated effort to disrupt a large trafficking organization Monday. Authorities say over a dozen members of a south St. Louis gang, named 55 Boyz, have been sentenced.

Some of the items seized in the bust include two dozen guns, thousands of fentanyl capsules, more then $100,000 in cash, hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry, and two vehicles.

“We know drug sales can have a major effect, including robbery, shootings, and violence,” Police Chief Robert Tracy said. “This operation is just one example of how the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department collaborates with federal partners, (and) U.S. attorneys to investigate organized crime.”

Police say Carlos Amons remains at large, as ATF stated they have a warrant out for his arrest. Investigators displayed painting of who they called the “ring leaders,” which included 27-year-old Davante Lindsey, who was sentenced between 9 and 12 years in prison, along with 28-year-old Andre Pearson, who was sentenced to 11 years in prison.

Authorities accuse Lindsey and Parson helping the 55 Boyz and other gangs, including Young Project Goons, Team Knockout, The Strip, Pressure Gang, and Cave.

Co-consipirators used phones to arrange drug sales, such as sending texts advertising their illegal products.

“St. Louis is safer today because of the hard work of St. Louis police and our federal agents and partners,” Tracy added. “We did everything possible to dismantle the 55 Boyz, a known violent street gang responsible for criminal activity. This type of organized crime has no place in the City of St. Louis or our region.”

U.S. Attorney Sayler Fleming say the two individuals were the targets of drug-linked shootings and perpetrators of violence.

“The multiple sentences in this case send a clear message to any member of a violent criminal organization: You will be investigated and you will be held accountable for your violent actions,” Bernard Hanses with the ATF said.

Below is a list of those who were also convicted and sentenced:

• Edward Hopkins
• Tony Evans, 35
• Araven Johnson, 29
• Douglas Simpson, 35
• Jeffery Moore, 26
• Shawn Liggins, 22
• Omar Lewis, 23
• Willie Lindsey, 44
• Jamond Dismukes, 24
• Travon Weatherspoon, 34
• Birtha Lindsey, 43
• Erik Simmons, 30
• Armini Tatum, 33
• Martez Lindsey, 32
• Jaheim Young, 23
• Jaro Tate, 24
• Johnetta Phillips, 33

20-year-old Vonne Lindsey awaits sentencing.

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