Federal jury finds Dallas gang member guilty in large-scale drug and gun trafficking case
Dallas, Texas – A Dallas federal jury has convicted a 40-year-old gang member on a wide range of drug trafficking and firearm charges, marking a major outcome in a sweeping investigation that targeted criminal activity along a troubled corridor in South Dallas. Jamarian Augustus Hewitt, also known as “Zillionaire JJ,” was found guilty after a four-day trial, according to United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould.
The verdict, delivered on April 9, 2026, found Hewitt guilty of trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana, two counts of firearm possession in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, one count of using a cell phone in furtherance of a drug offense, and illegal possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. The convictions expose him to a possible sentence ranging from at least 20 years to life in federal prison, along with a potential $10 million fine.
Operation Blue Laces exposes widespread drug network
The case against Hewitt stems from “Operation Blue Laces,” an extensive investigation launched in January 2024 by agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The operation focused on criminal activity linked to members of the Four Deuce Oakland Crips gang, particularly along two key intersections on the Malcolm X Boulevard corridor.
According to court documents, the operation was initiated after repeated complaints from residents and business owners who described a growing sense of fear in the area. Investigators uncovered what they described as a coordinated network of drug distribution operating out of storefronts and residential properties.
“The residents living and working in the Malcolm X Boulevard neighborhood had been living in fear due to the havoc wreaked by the Four Deuce Oakland Crip gang members’ criminal activities,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “With this verdict, Hewitt has been held accountable and faces a potential lifetime sentence, which should restore a sense of peace to the Malcolm X Boulevard neighborhood.”
Evidence presented during the trial showed that Hewitt played a central role in the operation. He ran a storefront known as Zillionaire Exotic Pop, located at 3401 S. Malcolm X Blvd., where authorities say he distributed large quantities of drugs. Testimony revealed that the business was used to sell methamphetamine, cocaine, and between 200 and 300 pounds of marijuana each week. Hewitt was also linked to the sale of codeine mixed with soda, commonly referred to as “purple drank.”
Social media evidence further supported the prosecution’s case. Posts tied to Hewitt showed images of him alongside captions promoting his activities, including one stating “I am a drug lord.” Additional posts advertised marijuana sales and highlighted the gang’s presence in the area.
Seizures reveal scale of operation
Searches carried out during the investigation uncovered a wide range of illegal items. At Hewitt’s business, agents found one kilogram of methamphetamine pills, packaged marijuana labeled as “Zillionaire Marijuana,” and multiple firearms. Additional searches of other locations connected to the gang revealed more drugs, including pounds of marijuana, large amounts of PCP, and cocaine ready for distribution. Officers also recovered more than two dozen firearms and even discovered a live alligator during one of the searches.
“Today’s verdict sends a clear and unequivocal message: those who choose to flood our neighborhoods with drugs and arm violent criminal enterprises will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian Garner of ATF Dallas. “By dismantling this trafficking network, Operation Blue Laces reflects the power of intelligence-driven investigations and strong law enforcement partnerships. ATF remains committed to targeting the most violent offenders and working alongside our partners to protect the citizens of Dallas.”
Hewitt is scheduled to be sentenced on August 12, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Brantley Starr, who presided over the trial. His case is part of a broader federal initiative aimed at dismantling organized crime networks and reducing violence tied to drug trafficking operations.
The investigation was carried out through a joint effort involving ATF agents and the Dallas Police Department, while Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rick Calvert and Ashley Koos led the prosecution. Officials say the outcome reflects a continued push to restore safety and stability in communities affected by organized crime.
