A man from Honduras, who was living illegally in the United States and a known member of the violent gang MS-13, has been sentenced to more than 12 years (147 months) in prison. He was found guilty of kidnapping a former federal witness, attacking him, and having a gun illegally.
What Happened?
On November 5, 2023, Bayron Wuifredo Santos-Recarte, 27, along with other MS-13 members, kidnapped a man at gunpoint in a laundromat parking lot in Nashville, Tennessee. The victim was a former federal witness who had testified in a court case against MS-13 members eight months earlier.
In his earlier testimony, the witness had shared that MS-13 tried to kill him twice over a drug issue. This made him a target for revenge by the gang.
Brutal Assault in a Truck
After kidnapping the witness, the gang held him in a truck for several hours. During that time, they brutally assaulted him using a gun, a hammer, and even a machete. They kept asking why he had testified against the gang and threatened to kill him.
Eventually, the victim managed to escape and call for help. He was rushed to a hospital and treated for serious injuries, including broken bones, internal bleeding, and a kidney injury.
Why This Crime Matters
Officials say this crime shows how dangerous MS-13 can be. The gang has already been labeled a terrorist organization because of its violent actions. The Justice Department said that harming a federal witness is a serious crime and they will continue fighting to break down MS-13.
Matthew R. Galeotti, a top official at the Department of Justice, said this act of violence is a clear example of how MS-13 tries to silence people who speak up against them. He also said the department will continue its strong efforts to stop the gang completely.
Law Enforcement Speaks Out
Robert E. McGuire, the Acting U.S. Attorney for Middle Tennessee, said protecting witnesses is a top priority. Anyone who tries to hurt or scare a witness will face strong legal action.
Jason Stankiewicz from the ATF said witness intimidation is a federal crime. In this case, the victim was tortured just for speaking the truth. He promised that ATF and other police departments will keep working to reduce gang violence and protect communities.
The Final Outcome
When police identified Santos-Recarte as one of the attackers, he admitted to being involved. He confessed to driving the truck, knowing the victim had testified, and helping force the witness into the vehicle. He was also present during the assault. When he was arrested, he was carrying an assault rifle.
In December 2024, Santos-Recarte pleaded guilty to multiple charges: kidnapping, retaliation against a federal witness, illegal possession of a firearm, and conspiracy. Once he finishes his prison term, he will be deported back to Honduras.
This case is a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting witnesses and standing up against violent criminal groups like MS-13. The U.S. government is working hard to bring justice and keep communities safe. Santos-Recarte’s prison sentence sends a strong message that violence and threats against witnesses will not be tolerated.
