A multi-agency operation led to the arrest of Hernando Thompson, the suspected leader of the \u201cSex Money Murder Gang\u201d in Florida.<\/p>\n
Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Thompson\u2019s conviction during a press conference, highlighting the violent nature of the gang, which is affiliated with the Bloods. \u201cThis criminal led a violent, Bloods-affiliated gang that treated crime like a business\u2014a business of robberies, drive-by shootings and violence against children,\u201d Uthmeier stated that the trial ended with guilty verdicts on all five charges: Racketeering, Conspiracy to Commit Racketeering, and three counts of Directing Criminal Gang Activities.<\/p>\n
The jury took just one hour to deliberate before finding Thompson guilty during the trial from January 5 to 8, 2026, following an investigation that started in 2022. Thompson, 36, is now detained at Polk County Jail and is scheduled for sentencing on February 20, 2026. He faces up to five consecutive life sentences.<\/p>\n
The joint investigation involved the Office of Statewide Prosecution, Polk County Sheriff\u2019s Office, Florida Department of Corrections, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, leading to the arrest of twelve additional gang members. These efforts significantly intensified the crackdown on the gang\u2019s illegal activities.<\/p>\n
Statewide Prosecutor Brad McVay noted the case\u2019s complexity, saying, \u201cThis case was tough because of the defendant\u2019s leadership in the criminal organization, but our prosecutors managed to peel away the layers he tried to hide behind.\u201d He also praised the Polk County Sheriff\u2019s Office and the Department of Corrections for their essential contributions.<\/p>\n
Thompson awaits sentencing scheduled for Feb. 20, 2026.<\/p>\n
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