Gang Leader Of Connecticut Latin Kings Sentenced To 16 Years

HARTFORD, CT — In 2017, Wilson "Wiso" Velez warned his fellow members of the Almighty Latin Kings they should be careful of what they say to each other lest their words wind up on FBI wiretaps. It turns out, Velez was right to worry.

On Wednesday, a federal judge sentenced Velez to 16 years in prison. Federal prosecutors described Velez's gang role as "Regional Officer" — which made him second highest-ranking member of the Latin King in Connecticut — and argued that the 35-year-old gang leader was remorseless for his crimes after leading a life "relishing the role of an outlaw."

The state's drug case against Velez began in June 2017, when the FBI used confidential sources to begin purchasing heroin and fentanyl from him and his fellow gang members.

In a sentencing memo filed last month, prosecutors described as Velez as "a shrewd drug trafficker" who turned a six-unit apartment building into his drug operation's headquarters. He also enlisted a 17-year-old and his own 18-year-old nephew as drug couriers.

In his capacity as a gang leader, Velez " orchestrated the confrontation" that led multiple Latin King members to attack a rival drug dealer in April 2017. Prosecutors said the incident led to a gun battle that injured multiple gang members and left one in a coma.

Eight months later, in December 2017, investigators arrested Velez at his nephew's apartment, where they found approximately 140 grams of heroin and 30 grams of fentanyl.

Velez was released on bond, but "immediately resumed criminal activity" related to the Latin Kings drug trade, according to legal filings. His bond was revoked in April 2018.

One month later, Velez and nine other members of the Latin Kings were indicted on 41 counts related to the gang's drug dealing.

In February 2019, Velez pleaded guilty two counts: One count for using a gun in relation to drug trafficking, and the other for conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and/or 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

Prosecutors initially sought a sentence of 30 years to life. Velez will have to serve at least 85 percent of his 16-year sentence and is not eligible for parole.