Waterbury Gang Member from Connecticut District Pleads Guilty to Numerous Federal Offenses

Ezra Alves, known as “EJ” and “Ezzy,” 23, from Waterbury, has pled guilty to a multitude of offenses, including racketeering conspiracy, attempted murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and drug-related charges. Alves was part of the notorious 960 gang, a violent street gang based in Waterbury, CT. His guilty plea was accepted by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport. The announcement was made by several key personnel involved in the case, including U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery and representatives from the FBI, ATF, and Waterbury Police.

The law enforcement agencies have been working closely to curb drug trafficking and associated violent crimes in Waterbury. The collaborative investigation has focused on several criminal entities, prominently the 960 gang. Alves, along with 15 other gang members, were indicted by a federal court on September 14, 2021. The charges included racketeering, drug trafficking, weapon possession, murder, attempted murder and assault, and obstruction of justice.

Alves confessed to his involvement in various crimes during his time with the 960 gang, including drug trafficking and violent confrontations with rival gangs. Alves took part in several drive-by shootings, which resulted in numerous injuries. These shootings were carried out in retaliation for a murder, or as attempts to kill rivals, indicating high levels of violence and criminal activities within the gang.

Pending his sentencing, scheduled for June 18, 2024, Alves is facing a minimum of 17 years in prison with a potential life sentence. Following his indictment, Alves has been under detention since November 15, 2019. Judge Dooley will determine his punishment, taking into account the severity of his crimes and their impact on the community.

The prosecution of Alves is part of larger projects launched by the Justice Department: Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). Both programs aim to reduce violent crimes by focusing on violent offenders, disrupting drug traffickers, and dismantling criminal organizations. The collaborations engage federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Through this case, the Justice Department endeavors to enhance community safety and halt the growing menace of organized crime.