Eugene “Big u” Henley, former manager of rapper Nipsey Hussle, also faces federal RICO complaints, including allegations of murder, human trafficking and blackmail. Henley, also known as the “godfather” of rap, is linked to a range of criminal activities, including the alleged instructing the murder of an aspiring rapper in Las Vegas in January 2021.
Henley, the leader of the federal authorities called the “Mafia-like organization” was accused of driving to North Las Vegas with co-defendant Sylvester “Vey” Robinson, where they fatally shot an unnamed rapper after the rappers allegedly recorded a diss track in Henley. The two allegedly dragged the rapper’s body from Interstate 15 into the desert and left it in a ditch. Henley and Robinson reportedly returned to Los Angeles, where they threatened witnesses and destroyed surveillance videos from the studio.
The complaint outlines a sprawling criminal enterprise that allegedly used intimidation to extort local businesses, including millions of dollars, to embezzle millions of dollars from the office of La Mayor Karen Bass under the guise of opposing the Gong community program. Henry is also accused of fraudulently obtaining loans with his record label and misappropriating funds designed for community services.
In a press conference, U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally condemned Henley and his actions, calling them violent criminals disguised as anti-brief activists and music entrepreneurs. The complaint also claimed that Henry blackmailed professional athletes and musicians, demanding that they “protect” their stay in “only” when visiting Los Angeles, intimidating them with his reputation as a leader in the 1960s.
Henley, who was previously sentenced to 13 years in prison for attempting to rob a secret deputy in 1991, is now a fugitive. Federal authorities have arrested several people in connection with Henry’s alleged crimes, including part-time rappers Bricc Baby and Luce Cannon, who often appear on the “No Jumper” podcast. Allegations against Henry and colleagues include robbery, trafficking, bank fraud and violations of the Racket Affected and Corruptible Organization Act (RICO).
Henley reportedly involved in the criminal underworld, fraudulently receiving funds from the mayor of Los Angeles office grants aimed at reducing gangs and youth development programs. He also allegedly misappropriated substantial funds from celebrity donations designed to develop options for his nonprofit organization that offer gang interventions and youth programs.
The FBI investigation revealed patterns of robbery and ransomware carried out by Henry’s criminal business, including robbery at robbery in Los Angeles’ unlicensed marijuana dispensaries. Henley was accused of extorting $25,000 a month from a pharmacy and then planning a violent robbery when payments stopped. In another incident, Henry allegedly ransomed $30,000 from the victims at his birthday party in December 2021.
The options developed by Henley’s nonprofit (which has received millions of dollars in city grants) are also under scrutiny for failing to comply with the necessary regulations. Henry allegedly used the funds to support his criminal operations. The charges he faces could result in up to 20 years in prison and could be sentenced to life imprisonment if convicted of murder.
Henley is notorious for being a “godfather” in the rap world, and his past involvement with artists like Kurumt and Nipsey Hussle emphasizes his guidance. Despite his criminal activities, Henry is often seen as a reformed gang member and community activist, although authorities have now exposed his violent and fraudulent transactions. The investigation continues with more details about his extensive crime and influence network in the Los Angeles area.
