MS-13 Leader Sentenced to Life for Two Murders
Judge Stanley Blumenfeld Jr. handed down a life sentence to Walter Chavez Larin following his conviction.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Financial Crime
Walter Chavez Larin, a leader of the MS-13 Fulton clique, was sentenced to life in prison for his role in two murders carried out in the Angeles National Forest. His sentencing follows a major investigation that has secured 34 total convictions against the local MS-13 gang network.
Why it matters
The sentencing highlights the ongoing efforts by federal and local authorities to dismantle violent gang hierarchies in Los Angeles. Larin ordered the death of Oscar Fuentes for violating gang rules, reflecting the lethal enforcement methods used to maintain control within the organization.
Walter Chavez Larin received a life sentence for his involvement in two homicides. This concludes a high-profile prosecution that resulted in 34 total convictions against the MS-13 network in the area.
The players
Walter Chavez Larin
He is a leader of the MS-13 Fulton clique and was sentenced for ordering two gang-related murders.
Stanley Blumenfeld Jr.
He is the federal judge who presided over the case and delivered the sentence for Larin.
Department of Justice
This federal agency collaborated with local offices to prosecute the MS-13 network.
Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office
This agency partnered with federal authorities to investigate and convict gang members.
Yefri Revelo
He is a co-defendant in the case awaiting his scheduled sentencing in December.
The details
Larin facilitated the murders by providing a .38-caliber handgun and ordering the execution of Oscar Fuentes for disobeying gang mandates. Associates attempted to conceal the crimes by dousing the victim known as E.H. with rubbing alcohol to destroy forensic evidence before discarding the body over a ridge.
Timeline
October 2019: The body of Oscar Fuentes was discovered by county employees.
April 7, 2026: Co-defendant Orellana Gonzalez was sentenced to 33 years and nine months.
August 25, 2026: Edwin Martinez was sentenced to life in prison for his role.
December 15, 2026: Yefri Revelo is scheduled for sentencing.
Legal Context
This case follows the precedent set by 34 other convictions against the MS-13 network in the region. These legal actions highlight a coordinated effort to address gang-related violence through extensive federal and local investigations.
The closure of this case marks a significant step in reducing the presence of the MS-13 Fulton clique in local neighborhoods. Residents in areas like the San Fernando Valley may see a shift in local security as federal and local agencies continue to target the remaining network members.
The takeaway
Gang members face severe federal consequences including life sentences for orchestrating violent crimes to maintain hierarchy. Authorities emphasize that the investigation into the MS-13 network remains active with further sentencings expected.
What happens next
Yefri Revelo is scheduled to appear for sentencing on December 15, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on legal developments in the region, visit the Los Angeles Financial Crime section.
