Memphis gang members sentenced to 50 years for murder-for-hire killing
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- Two men sentenced to 50 years in prison for gang-related murder, DOJ says - FOX13 Memphis
- Edward Allen, 42, of Los Angeles — known in the gang as “E-Money” — and Deandre Rodgers, 29, of Memphis — known as “Dre” — were found guilty Feb.
- Prosecutors said gang members committed murder, burglary, assault, human trafficking and drug trafficking on behalf of the organization.
Two high-ranking members of the Unknown Vice Lords, a violent street gang in Memphis, were sentenced to 50 years in federal prison for their involvement in a murder-for-hire scheme.
Edward Allen, known as 'E-Money', and Deandre Rodgers, known as 'Dre', were convicted on February 13, 2026, of causing death through the use of a firearm during a crime of violence, specifically murder in aid of racketeering. The Justice Department's announcement of their sentencing underscores the federal government's commitment to combating gang-related violence.
Prosecutors detailed a range of criminal activities linked to the Unknown Vice Lords, including murder, burglary, assault, human trafficking, and drug trafficking, which have plagued Memphis and surrounding areas. The gang, also referred to as The Ghost Mob, has been known to control significant territory throughout Memphis, as well as parts of Arkansas and Mississippi.
This case is part of a larger effort to address organized crime in urban settings, reflecting ongoing concerns about the impact of gang violence on communities. The convictions of Allen and Rodgers serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of gang involvement and the federal government's resolve to tackle such criminal enterprises.
- The sentencing of Edward Allen and Deandre Rodgers underscores the ongoing battle against gang violence and organized crime in the U.S., particularly in urban areas like Memphis.
- Their lengthy prison terms serve as a deterrent to other gang members, potentially reducing violent crime rates and improving community safety.
- Additionally, this case highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of gang involvement, which often include socioeconomic factors and lack of opportunities for youth in affected neighborhoods.
- The Memphis District Attorney's Office will announce new initiatives to combat gang violence within the next 30 days.
- The U.S. Department of Justice is expected to release updated guidelines on federal prosecutions for gang-related crimes within the next two weeks.
- Local community organizations will host a town hall meeting next month to discuss strategies for preventing gang involvement among youth.
- The Memphis Police Department plans to unveil a new anti-gang task force by the end of this quarter.
- The Tennessee state legislature will vote on proposed gang prevention funding measures before the upcoming session adjourns in six weeks.
Left- and right-leaning outlets are covering this story differently — in which facts to emphasize, which context to include, and how to frame causes and consequences.