by Polk County, Fla. – Florida authorities announced the conviction of Hernando Thompson, also known as T. Murda, the top leader of the notorious “Sex, Money, Murder” gang, a subset of the Bloods. The conviction caps a multiyear racketeering investigation that exposed a violent criminal enterprise operating in Florida.
Incident Overview
Thompson was convicted on 17 felony counts, including racketeering and conspiracy, and now faces up to five life sentences. Prosecutors said Thompson orchestrated a range of violent crimes, from drug trafficking and robberies to shootings and attempted murders, while insulating himself from direct involvement.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd commented during a news conference:
“If you want to engage in dangerous, violent, gang-related activity, do not do it in Florida. Most importantly, do not do it in Polk County. Are you nuts?”
Investigation Details
The investigation relied heavily on a court-authorized wiretap that intercepted over 4,700 communications discussing criminal activity. Search warrants led to the seizure of firearms, ballistic armor, and approximately $1.5 million in drugs.
Authorities highlighted particularly disturbing incidents, including gang members allegedly pointing guns at young children during home invasions, involving an 8-year-old and a 3-month-old infant.
“The only reason the victim wasn’t murdered is that he got away in the middle of the night,” Judd said. “We locked him up on other charges to keep him alive until the investigation was complete.”
Criminal History and Sentencing
Thompson’s criminal record spans more than two decades, including 14 prior felony charges, 10 misdemeanors, and two prison terms. He is currently in custody at the Polk County Jail, awaiting sentencing on February 20.
Judd criticized the criminal justice system for allowing Thompson temporary release on bail, noting:
“I don’t know who the harebrained judge was that let him out. When he’s not in jail, he’s out committing crime.”
Broader Impact
Officials said the investigation extended beyond Florida, identifying gang leaders and associates in North Carolina and South Carolina, with additional cases possible in the future. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier framed the prosecution as part of the state’s tough-on-crime strategy, emphasizing severe sentences for violent offenders:
“We want him behind bars for the rest of his life. If you run drugs, guns and violence into our communities, you are going to pay the price.”
Conclusion
The conviction of Hernando Thompson dismantles the Florida hierarchy of the “Sex, Money, Murder” gang and serves as a warning to violent offenders. Authorities continue to investigate the gang’s operations across multiple states.
Sheriff Judd left a stark message for criminals:
“If you really want to commit crime unabated, there’s California, New York, New Jersey. Just get out of Florida.”
Share your experiences in the comments below.
