MS-13 gang member Alexi Saenz, 29, brutally attacked high school girls with a bat and machete in a horrific slaying in New York. He pleaded guilty to racketeering charges, including the 2016 murders of Kayla Cuevas, 16, and Nisa Mickens, 15, who were viciously assaulted while walking through their Long Island neighborhood.
During his plea, Saenz remained largely silent. His lawyer read a statement where Saenz admitted to ordering or approving killings of rivals and those who had disrespected his gang.
The victims, friends and classmates at Brentwood High School, were attacked by a group of young men following them in a car. Kayla and Nisa were murdered with a machete and bat.
Freddy Cuevas, Kayla’s father, expressed disappointment that the death penalty was off the table, calling Saenz “an animal” and “inhumane.” Elizabeth Alvarado, Nisa’s mother, hoped for peace for her daughter.
Tragically, Kayla’s mother, Evelyn Rodriguez, killed in 2018, became an anti-gang activist after her daughter’s death. The murders drew national attention during President Trump’s administration, who highlighted MS-13 violence and advocated for harsh penalties.
The deaths also raised concerns about police response to gang threats in Long Island. The discovery of other bodies further highlighted the gang’s impact.
Saenz, though not present during the murders, discussed the attacks with gang members. He admitted to additional killings and faces a long prison sentence.
MS-13, originating in El Salvador, has brought violence and fear to Long Island communities.
George Johnson, father of victim Michael Johnson, criticized Saenz’s demeanor in court, saying, “He should die in there.”