'Latin Gangsta Disciples' Caught In Nashua On Gun-Running Charges

NASHUA, NH — Two members of the so-called "Latin Gangsta Disciples" were arrested in Nashua last week on gun-running charges, according to authorities. Bryan Torres-Almanzar, 19, and Eric Valentin, 22, both of Lawrence, Massachusetts, were arrested Thursday and charged with dealing firearms without a license and conspiracy. The pair were arrested after an undercover sting in Massachusetts, authorities said.

A third suspect, Jose Ilarraza, 26, of Newburyport, Massachusetts, was also charged in connection with the case.

An undercover agent purchased eight guns from Torres-Almanzar and Valentin over the fall in Massachusetts, according to Bay State U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling. One of the sales involved a $1,000 9mm pistol with laser sight and extended magazine, Lelling said.

The agent was directed by Ilarraza to contact Torres-Almanzar and Valentin about obtaining guns to send to the Dominican Republic, according to Lelling.

"Torres-Almanzar and Valentin talked about future gun purchases and told the cooperating witness that 'we do business and will take care of you,'" Lelling said in a statement. "They also said that they were in the business of 'growing our organization.'"

The trio were held in custody pending arraignments in federal court in Boston.

The Latin Gangsta Disciples are based in the North Shore section of Massachusetts, according to authorities. Several members were arrested in an FBI sting in 2010.

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