Dangerous Gang Making a Mark on Rural Alabama
DEKALB COUNTY, AL- The most dangerous gang in North America is making its presence known in Sand Mountain, and drug smuggling, stabbings and even death threats to police officers are leaving some local residents paralyzed with fear.
"MS-13 is considered to be the most violent gang in the United States of America today," said Maj. Ron Ogletree with the DeKalb Co. Sheriff's Office "Mara Salva-trucha", more commonly known as "MS-13" has gained infamy for its shocking brutality and relentless intimidation. Rape, murder, and human disfigurment are just some of the gang's trademarks. Now, they're marking their territory in DeKalb County. Authorities said a bridge on County Road 24 just outside Crossville has been claimed by MS-13. The gang's symbolic roman numeral 13 is clearly marked along with other menacing warnings and profanities all over the roadway. "MS-13 is an extremely violent gang," Ogletree said. "They came in as the Hispanics came in, preying on them. Now they're trying to prey on others." MS-13 sprang up in El Salvador during the 1980's during that country's civil war. Fighters immigrated to Los Angeles and have since spread all over the country. DeKalb County authorities said MS-13 has quickly gained control over much of the drug trade, and could possibly be involved in the stabbing of a Rainsville police officer last month. "Approximately two years ago, a guntersville police officer was shot in the line of duty by a (member of MS-13), and we have information they intend to intimidate law enforcment in DeKalb County, even now," Ogletree said. During the past week, officers have spotted all kinds of new MS-13 symbols. The most disturbing graffiti says "RIPD12", standing for "Rest in peace, Deputy 12", a death threat to a DeKalb County sheriff's deputy. "We cannot nor will not allow the citizens of this county or law enforcment to be intimidated by such dregs of society as MS-13," Ogletree said. Residents in nearby Crossville said they've heard of the gang's notorious methods. "I'm pretty worried," said resident Tonya Plunketts. "I have an 8-year-old and 11-year-old. I'm locking the doors, won't let them go outside." No one knows how many MS-13 members are in the area, but authorities promise they won't be staying long. This past week, federal and local law enforcement ran "Operation Clean Sweep", targeting drugs and illegal immigrants in those DeKalb and Marshall counties. Reporter: Nick Banaszak
Web Editor: Dana Franks
