A federal court in Baltimore witnessed emotional scenes on Tuesday as David Warren, a confessed member of the Black Guerilla Family (BGF) gang, received a 45-year prison sentence for his involvement in multiple gang-related shootings and homicides.
Warren, who pleaded guilty to federal racketeering conspiracy charges in July, is the latest BGF member to be sentenced following a 2022 indictment. The indictment implicated the notorious gang in murders, shootings, robberies, and drug distribution operations, some of which were allegedly planned within a now-closed Safe Streets office.
Prosecutors described Warren as a “cold and calculating contract killer,” emphasizing his role in conspiracies that led to loss of life. Chief Judge James Bredar, deeming the prosecution’s recommended 33-year sentence insufficient, imposed a 45-year term, citing Warren’s “lack of respect for life” and the danger he poses to the public.
Court documents reveal Warren’s criminal activities dating back to 2014, including contract killings and other violent crimes. Notably, Warren admitted to attending BGF meetings at a Safe Streets location, which he described as a BGF ‘clubhouse’ used for storing weapons and drugs.
The case highlights concerning connections between gang activities and the Safe Streets program, designed to reduce violence in Baltimore. Warren’s involvement with a Safe Streets office raises questions about the program’s oversight and effectiveness.
The sentencing also brought closure to some victims’ families, including Scott McKemy, whose son Bryan was killed in a related incident. McKemy expressed satisfaction with Warren’s sentence, noting the long journey to justice.
This case is part of a broader federal crackdown on BGF activities in Baltimore, with investigations extending to other Safe Streets sites. The revelations have prompted scrutiny of the Safe Streets program’s management and hiring practices, with Mayor Brandon Scott facing questions about transparency and the potential for criminal infiltration of violence prevention initiatives.
As Baltimore continues to grapple with gang-related violence, this sentencing marks a significant step in federal efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating within the city.