Eugene “Big U” Henley, a well-known figure in hip-hop and a reputed leader of the Rollin’ 60s Crips, has been arrested and accused of operating a “mafia-like organization” involved in murder, kidnapping, extortion, and fraud, federal authorities announced Wednesday.

According to a 107-page federal complaint, the 58-year-old has been charged with conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act in connection with allegedly operating a “mafia-like organization” that extorted athletes and musicians under the guise of providing “protection” in Los Angeles. 

The report notes that Henley allegedly defrauded companies, donors, and celebrities, including NBA star Draymond Green and former Lakers player Shaquille O’Neal. Authorities claim Henley solicited charitable donations and then transferred funds to personal accounts. 

Additionally, Henley allegedly obtained fraudulent funding from the Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) program, which allocated $2.35 million to his nonprofit, Developing Options, between 2018 and 2023.

RELATED: Southern University Mourns Caleb Wilson as More Arrests Are Made in Hazing Case

During a news conference, U.S. Attorney Joseph T. McNally stated, “Henley has maintained the image of an entertainment industry entrepreneur running a music label and of somebody who gives back to the community here in Los Angeles.”  He added, “The facts alleged in the complaint paint a very different picture. It is one of a murderer, a thief, a liar, and a cheat and the criminals that enabled him.”

Henley is also accused of orchestrating the 2021 murder of 21-year-old rapper Rayshawn Williams in Las Vegas. Investigators allege Henley and an associate confronted Williams over a diss track before kidnapping and fatally shooting him. Authorities say Williams' body was found in a ditch with gunshot wounds to the face.

Henley, along with associates Sylvester Robinson and Mark Martin, face RICO charges. Other individuals, including Termaine Williams, Armani Aflleje, Fredrick Blanton Jr., and Tiffany Hines, have all been charged with various offenses, including robbery and bank fraud. 

Before turning himself in, Henley denied the allegations in a video, stating, “I ain’t did nothing. I ain’t been nothing but a help to our community.”

Federal authorities assert that Henley’s organization relied on intimidation and violence to maintain control in Los Angeles. More than a dozen individuals have been arrested in connection with the case as authorities continue their investigation.