Rollin' 60s Crip Leader 'Big U' Arrested in Federal RICO Case (full court document inside)
- Crime Noir
- Mar 21
- 2 min read
Federal authorities have arrested 58-year-old Eugene Henley Jr., also known as “Big U,” as part of Operation Draw Down, a large-scale law enforcement effort targeting organized crime. Henley Jr. has been described by law enforcement as a longtime leader of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips, a notorious Los Angeles-based street gang.
Beyond his alleged criminal activities, Henley has been known in the entertainment industry for working with the late Nipsey Hussle and has also been recognized as a community activist. However, federal prosecutors now claim he is a violent individual and have charged him under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.
Serious Criminal Allegations
Henley faces multiple charges, including:
Sex trafficking
Fraud
Extortion
Murder (He is suspected in the 2021 killing of aspiring rapper R.W.)
In addition, prosecutors allege that Henley submitted fraudulent paperwork to obtain COVID-19 relief funds. He reportedly claimed that his company, Uneek Music, had generated a $200,000 profit, despite actually operating at a $5,000 loss.
Further allegations suggest that Henley defrauded donors to his nonprofit organization, Developing Options, by taking financial contributions from celebrities and corporate sponsors and instead of using the funds for community outreach, prosecutors claim he transferred donations into his personal bank account. The nonprofit, originally established to help steer at-risk youth away from gangs and criminal activity, allegedly served as a front to protect gang members from law enforcement. Notably, Developing Options received funding through the City of Los Angeles Mayor’s Office under the Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) Foundation.
Wider Gang Crackdown
Henley was one of 19 individuals arrested in the federal RICO sweep. Among them was Bricc Baby, a well-known figure in hip-hop circles, recognized for his commentary on the controversial No Jumper podcast.
If convicted, Henley faces a maximum sentence of life in federal prison.
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