St. Johns County Man Arrested as Senior Leader of Violent Florida Gang
A 23-year-old man from Flagler Estates, identified as Andrew Mariano, has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to gang activity. Mariano is allegedly a senior member of the “Sex, Money, Murder” gang, a faction affiliated with the Bloods street gang. His arrest follows a comprehensive investigation led by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office (BSO) into the gang’s operations across Florida.
Arrest and Charges
Mariano faces several serious charges, including:
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Racketeering
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Conspiracy to commit homicide
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Directing activities of a criminal gang
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Money laundering
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office (SJSO) and BSO executed a search warrant at Mariano’s residence, where they discovered firearms and drugs. Authorities allege that Mariano was involved in trafficking drugs and firearms throughout northeast Florida.
Investigation and Gang Activities
The “Sex, Money, Murder” gang is known for its violent activities and is considered one of the most dangerous factions within the Bloods network. The BSO’s investigation uncovered a “kill list” containing the names of intended victims, prompting law enforcement to intervene and prevent potential homicides. This proactive approach is credited with saving lives and disrupting the gang’s operations.
Broader Impact and Law Enforcement Response
Mariano’s arrest is part of a larger statewide effort to dismantle organized criminal gangs in Florida. The BSO’s operation led to the apprehension of nine other senior gang members across the state, highlighting the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat gang violence and criminal enterprises.
The discovery of a kill list underscores the severe threat posed by such gangs and the importance of vigilant law enforcement in preventing further violence. Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the gang’s activities and are committed to bringing all responsible individuals to justice.
Andrew Mariano’s arrest marks a significant step in addressing gang-related violence in Florida. The collaboration between the SJSO, BSO, and other law enforcement agencies demonstrates a unified approach to tackling organized crime and enhancing public safety. As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on dismantling criminal networks and preventing future threats to the community.
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