Federal Authorities Indict 11 Hoover Gang Members in Major Los Angeles Sex Trafficking Bust

LOS ANGELES – Federal authorities have announced the indictment of 11 members and associates of the Hoover Criminal Gang on charges related to extensive sex trafficking operations along Los Angeles's notorious Figueroa Corridor. The operation, led by the U.S. Department of Justice, aims to reclaim the area from criminal control and ensure severe consequences for those involved in human trafficking. Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli stated, "This operation is the first step in returning the Figueroa Corridor – long known as prostitution haven – back to its residents who have suffered for too long while criminals were allowed to run amok."

The Figueroa Corridor, a 3.5-mile stretch of Figueroa Street, has long been identified as a hub for prostitution and human trafficking, preying on vulnerable individuals. Victims, often minors, runaways, or those from the foster care system, are lured through social media or in person with false promises of a luxurious lifestyle, then subjected to force, fraud, or coercion. Investigations have revealed instances where victims were branded with tattoos and subjected to severe discipline for non-compliance.

Federal intervention was deemed necessary due to perceived inadequacies in state law to address the severity of these crimes. Essayli emphasized, "There are no meaningful consequences for their conduct under state law, so the federal government – aided by its local law enforcement partners – will step in to make sure these criminals face lengthy prison sentences." The 31-count indictment includes charges such as conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, sex trafficking of minors, and sex trafficking through force, fraud, or coercion.

The U.S. Department of Justice, under the leadership of Attorney General Pam Bondi, has prioritized combating human trafficking. Attorney General Bondi, who assumed her role in February 2025, has a history of spearheading efforts against human trafficking, including strengthening state laws and providing resources for victims during her tenure as Florida's Attorney General. Her office is committed to making Los Angeles safer by targeting prolific gang members involved in such heinous crimes.

This significant federal crackdown, executed with the support of local law enforcement partners like the Los Angeles Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, seeks to dismantle organized sex trafficking rings. If convicted, the defendants could face mandatory minimum sentences of 15 years and up to life in federal prison, marking a firm stance against those who exploit women and children. The ongoing efforts underscore a multi-agency commitment to protecting victims and holding criminal organizations accountable.