Feds Take Down Eugene Henley Jr., aka Big U, On RICO Charges
The Department of Justice just dropped a bombshell, announcing the arrest of Eugene Henley Jr., better known as Big U—a once-prominent music executive and community activist now accused of running a criminal empire in Los Angeles.
The feds say Big U leveraged his ties to the notorious Rollin’ 60s street gang to orchestrate a web of crimes, including extortion, human trafficking, fraud, and even murder.
What Big U Is Facing
Henley, 58, has been charged with conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act—a serious accusation often used to take down high-level organized crime bosses.
Two other alleged members of his organization were also arrested:
- Sylvester Robinson (aka “Vey”), 59, from Northridge
- Mark Martin (aka “Bear Claw”), 50, from Beverlywood
In total, 10 people were taken into custody, with even more under investigation.
Authorities are calling this a major takedown of organized crime in L.A.
From Activist To Alleged Crime Boss
For years, Big U positioned himself as an anti-gang activist, working to steer young people away from the streets.
But according to the feds, it was all a smoke screen.
The DOJ claims Henley was the mastermind behind Big U Enterprise, a standalone criminal operation that partnered with Rollin’ 60s and other gangs to maximize profits through:
- Murder
- Extortion
- Human trafficking
- Illegal gambling
- Fraud
- Sex trafficking
Federal investigators allege Big U’s operation intimidated businesses, exploited people, and even committed murder to maintain power.
The 2021 Murder Of An Up-And-Coming Rapper
One of the most shocking allegations in the case? The murder of an aspiring rapper in 2021.
According to the DOJ, Henley and his associates lured the young artist (identified in court documents as “R.W.”) to Las Vegas under the guise of recording music.
But when R.W. allegedly dropped a diss track aimed at Big U, things took a deadly turn.
Prosecutors claim Henley drove the rapper to the Nevada desert, shot him in the head, and left his body off Interstate 15.
The cover-up? Straight out of a movie.
The DOJ says Henley returned to L.A., wiped security footage from the recording studio, and intimidated witnesses into silence.
COVID-19 Fraud & Alleged Charity Scams
On top of violent crimes, Big U is also accused of pandemic relief fraud.
Prosecutors allege he submitted a fake loan application claiming his label, Uneek Music, made $200,000 in profits in 2019—when in reality, the business was losing money.
And the corruption doesn’t stop there.
The feds also say Big U embezzled money from his nonprofit, Developing Options, which was supposed to help keep young people out of gangs.
Instead, prosecutors claim Henley funneled celebrity and corporate donations into his personal bank account.
The kicker? Developing Options received funding from the City of Los Angeles and major donors, including NBA players.
Big U’s Response Before Turning Himself In
Before surrendering to authorities, Henley took to social media to address the charges:
“I ain’t been nothing but a help to the community. But I guess it is what it is.
This is the price of being Black and trying to help your community and do what you can.”
Watch below.
His statement has divided public opinion—some stand by him, while others believe the DOJ’s charges expose the real truth.
What’s Next For Big U?
If convicted, Eugene Henley Jr. faces life in federal prison.
His alleged associates, Robinson and Martin, could get up to 20 years behind bars.
And this investigation isn’t over—the feds are still tracking down other members of the operation.
As this case unfolds, one thing is certain—this story is far from over. Stay locked in for updates.
Lock In With Ice Cream Convos:
- SUBSCRIBE To Ice Cream Conversations on YouTube.
- FOLLOW US on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
- SHARE this post on socials!
