• Tweet
• (1) | COMMENTS
• Share
• Email
• Print

MILWAUKEE- This week, local and federal investigators issued a crackdown on a gang they say operates in Milwaukee's Riverwest neighborhood.

We first saw this video about drugs, money, and bling last fall.  That's when prosecutors started handing out indictments  -- investigating an elaborate drug ring.

Now, they're digging deeper.

"This is a second phase of a very significant, long-term effort," said U.S. Attorney James Santelle.

Prosecutors unveiled another wave of indictments and criminal complaints against 24 people -- part of what's known as the 'Eastside Gang,'

"This drug trafficking organization typically pooled their money to obtain large quantities of cocaine from other co-conspirators inside and outside this area," said Santelle.

Investigators arrested a number of suspects Thursday around Milwaukee.  They claim members helped funnel cocaine and crack into the city's drug scene -- and it doesn't end there.

"This particular group plainly has tendrils and involvement outside of the state of Wisconsin. It references plainly to Arizona, Illinois, and those other jurisdiction," said Santelle.

Enter a new suspect and a new rap video.  Investigators say 'Young Robbo,' also known as Robert Woods, is one of many people who distributed the crack around the city.

The FBI says the eastside gangsters are responsible for much more than drug-related crime.

"They're responsible for fatal as well as non-fatal shootings, robberies, and other criminal activity," said FBI Special Agent Gregory Jones.

Drug charges and penalties in those indictments could have sentences ranging from five years to life in prison.

Four suspects are still on the loose.

Investigators said another wave of indictments and arrests could be on the way.