Crips gang member admits racketeering and firearms charges

Amir Warden, known by aliases “Stamps” and “Killa,” confessed to his involvement in a racketeering conspiracy and admitted to possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon.

Warden, 31, entered his guilty plea on February 22, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton in Newark federal court.

He pleaded guilty to two counts outlined in a superseding information, including Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy and possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.

According to U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger, court documents and statements presented during the proceedings, Warden was a member of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips, a criminal entity known for perpetrating acts of violence and distributing controlled substances between 2015 and September 22, 2022.

Within the organization, Warden held a leadership position and colluded with fellow members and associates to traffic controlled substances. On August 19, 2019, he was involved in the distribution of heroin.

Additionally, on September 29, 2022, despite being a convicted felon, Warden was found in possession of three loaded firearms, three high-capacity drum magazines, and around 1,300 rounds of assorted ammunition.

Warden faces a maximum prison sentence of 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000 for the racketeering conspiracy charge. He also faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms charge.

Warden’s sentencing is scheduled for June 25, 2024.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger acknowledged the efforts of various law enforcement agencies in the investigation leading to Warden’s guilty plea. Special recognition was given to the special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), IRS-Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Additionally, the cooperation of several other law enforcement agencies, including police departments and prosecutor’s offices, was instrumental in the case.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. The OCDETF program aims to identify, disrupt, and dismantle high-level criminal organizations posing a threat to the United States, employing a multi-agency, intelligence-driven approach.