By: Richard L. Smith
Four members of a Paterson-based neighborhood street gang known as “4K” have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a shooting that unleashed more than 60 rounds in a residential neighborhood.
According to U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer, Jatrail Avent, also known as “Curry,” Shequan Roberts, also known as “Shingy,” Jahmir Moody, also known as “Jahdi,” and Wiziar Johnson, also known as “Wababy,” all of Paterson, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti.
Federal officials said each man admitted to assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Avent was sentenced September 2 to 96 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release.
Roberts received a 104-month prison sentence on September 9, followed by five years of supervised release, while Moody was sentenced the same day to 84 months and one day in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
Johnson was sentenced September 15 to 96 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made in court, federal authorities identified the defendants as members and associates of the 4K gang, which operates around Rosa Parks Boulevard near Lyon, Keen and Mercer streets in Paterson.
Authorities said members and associates of the gang have been linked to criminal activity including shootings, robberies, homicides and drug trafficking, as well as violence involving rival groups.
The federal case stems from a shooting during the early morning hours of November 6, 2022.
Prosecutors said Avent, Roberts, Moody and Johnson opened fire in a residential area at members of a rival gang known as the “230 Boys,” who were inside a van.
Authorities said the shooting was connected to an ongoing dispute between the two groups and that more than 60 rounds were fired.
The sentences followed a long-running investigation coordinated by the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies.