HOUSTON – Two men are facing life in prison or a possible death penalty for their deadly involvement in a Houston gang war, according to federal officials.
Houston crime: ‘Freemoney’ gang members charged
What we know:
Terry and Travonte Ardoin, 24 and 27, are reportedly charged with the following:
- Murder in aid of racketeering
- Attempted murder in aid of racketeering
- Use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
- Causing death through the use of a firearm
In November 2022, Houston Police said Terry and Travonte were arrested for the July 2022 shooting death of 29-year-old Shaquille Lewis.
The two allegedly shot Lewis in the parking lot at Houston’s Fondren Square.
According to federal officials, the shooting was tied to “an ongoing gang war” between the Freemoney gang and a rival group.
Officials say Terry and Travonte followed Lewis’ vehicle into the parking lot, got out of their vehicle with masks on, then shot at him and another person who was in the vehicle.
Houston Police said the other person wasn’t hurt.
Federal officials say members of the Freemoney gang “engange in robbery, home invasions, drug distribution, and murder.” According to a press release from Oct. 2022, Terry and Travonte were among seven alleged gang members who faced federal charges tied to robbery and drug trafficking.
If they’re convicted of Shaquille Lewis’ death, officials say Terry and Travonte Ardoin will face up to life in prison for a possible death penalty.
What we don’t know:
It’s not clear if either victim in the shooting was tied to another gang.
The Source: FBI Houston, Houston Police Department, and the Texas branch of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Crime and Public SafetyHouston