Man authorities say led Detroit gang gets 30 years

DETROIT (AP) - A man who authorities say was the leader of a violent Detroit street gang has been sentenced to 30 years in prison.

The U.S. attorney's office says 27-year-old Ramiah Jefferson, who led the Bounty Hunter Bloods, learned his punishment on Tuesday. Jefferson was convicted in August of racketeering conspiracy and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

The gang operated in northwest Detroit. Authorities say members were involved in drug and gun trafficking, armed robberies, home invasions and carjackings.

Several others have been convicted in the case. Authorities say gang members extensively used social media for self-promotion and communication.

Their arrests were part of the Detroit One initiative - a crackdown on crime in the city by a coalition of local, state and federal police agencies.

Published: Thu, Apr 21, 2016