Music Exec Big U Pleads Not Guilty To Federal Organized Crime Case Accusing Him Of Extortion, Human Tr@fficking & Fraud

Music Exec Big U Pleads Not Guilty To Federal Organized Crime Case Accusing Him Of Extortion, Human Tr@fficking & Fraud

Music executive and alleged gang leader Big U has officially entered a not guilty plea in his federal racketeering case.

On Tuesday (April 8), Big U, whose real name is Eugene Henley Jr., appeared before a judge in downtown Los Angeles where he denied all charges, which include murder, racketeering, extortion, and fraud.

The case stems from a sweeping indictment unsealed on March 19 by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California. The indictment names Big U along with 18 other alleged members of the Rollin 60s gang. Prosecutors claim the group was involved in multiple racketeering crimes such as extortion, human trafficking, fraud, and even the 2021 murder of an aspiring rapper who was signed to U’s label.

Big U is also accused of submitting a false application for a PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) loan on behalf of his label, Uneek Music. He surrendered to authorities the same day the indictment was made public.

Racketeering, by legal definition, refers to the act of engaging in a pattern of illegal activity—often as part of an organized group—in order to profit from criminal enterprises. Under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), crimes like extortion, money laundering, and murder can be tied together to show a larger criminal network.

Big U’s trial is set to begin on May 20. If convicted on all counts, he faces a possible life sentence.

 

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