Alleged Gang Leader Arrested Near Washington, DC

A joint law enforcement operation near Washington, DC led to the arrest of an alleged MS-13 leader amid ongoing efforts against gang violence in the United States.

Key Insights

The DOJ and FBI, along with state and local task forces, apprehended a top alleged MS-13 leader in Virginia.
The suspect was captured 30 miles outside Washington, DC, in Woodbridge, Virginia.
The operation involved multiple agencies using advanced technology to target MS-13.
The arrested suspect is from El Salvador and will be deported.
Governor Youngkin emphasized that Virginia is not a sanctuary state in response to the arrest.

Arrest of a Top MS-13 Leader

Federal, state, and local task forces collaborated to capture an alleged key MS-13 leader in Virginia, according to the Department of Justice. The operation, involving the FBI, ICE, ATF, Virginia State Police, and Prince William County Police, led to the arrest of the suspect in Woodbridge, just 30 miles from Washington, DC This captures highlights ongoing efforts to dismantle MS-13, a gang considered one of the most dangerous in the US.

The individual apprehended is allegedly one of the top MS-13 leaders in the country. According to Attorney General Pam Bondi, “He is an illegal alien from El Salvador, and he will not be living in our country much longer.” The operation used undisclosed advanced technologies, aimed at effectively targeting criminal activities associated with MS-13.

U.S. authorities have captured the top gang leader of MS-13 in Woodbridge, Virginia, according to reports. https://t.co/bA3gGvqAtv

— FOX 5 DC (@fox5dc) March 27, 2025

Law Enforcement’s Coordinated Efforts

FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the collaboration between agencies, stating, “This is what happens when you let good cops be cops.” The operation underscores the importance of such partnerships in combating gang violence on American soil.

In the announcement, President Donald Trump and his administration praised the arrest, emphasizing the role of former border czar Tom Homan. Trump himself took to Truth Social, commenting, “Just captured a major leader of MS13. Tom HOMAN is a superstar!” Governor Glenn Youngkin mentioned the arrest had limited support from the Biden administration, attributing the success to the Trump administration’s groundwork.

Implications for Immigration Policy

Governor Youngkin reiterated his stance on Virginia not being a sanctuary state, proposing budget amendments to withhold funding from non-cooperating local governments. Fairfax County Board Chair Jeff McKay responded, arguing Youngkin’s proposal could inadvertently lead to defunding the police. The broader immigration debate continues, with the administration involved in a legal battle over the use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act.

This operation marks a significant step in the larger strategy to target gang-related threats, potentially reshaping local and national law enforcement dynamics concerning immigration policies and gang prosecution efforts.