Gang Member 'Poo Moe' Pleads Guilty in RICO Case

Cartrelle Smith, also known as 'Poo Moe,' has pleaded guilty to charges related to his involvement in a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy, according to the U. S. Attorney's Office.

Smith entered his plea on October 21, 2026, before U. S. District Judge Patrick J.

Schiltz in Minneapolis. He is one of 14 defendants in the case U. S.

v. Alowonle et al. (24-cr-293) and the third to plead guilty.

Smith faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. His sentencing date has not yet been set. The charges against him are part of a broader investigation into the Lows gang, which has been active in Minneapolis since approximately 2004.

Details of the Conspiracy

The Lows gang is alleged to have engaged in a variety of criminal activities, including murder, attempted murder, narcotics distribution, robbery, carjacking, and firearms trafficking. The gang reportedly used intimidation, threats, armed retaliation, social media taunting, and shared firearms to maintain its territory and reputation.

Smith admitted to being a member of the Lows gang and participating in its activities, which included multiple acts of murder and narcotics trafficking. From April to July 2023, Smith arranged to sell fentanyl on at least two occasions. On July 5, 2023, he communicated with a customer about selling M-30 fentanyl pills, stating he had "just sold my 500" and "only got like 50 left."

On July 28, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in Plymouth, Minnesota, where Smith was found in possession of 42 M-30 fentanyl pills and a Glock 19 9mm handgun equipped with an automatic conversion device and an extended magazine. The charged conspiracy involved at least 129.1 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl.

Law Enforcement Response

United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen emphasized the commitment to holding Smith and other gang members accountable, stating, "This defendant chose to traffic harmful drugs and contribute to a violent criminal enterprise." ATF Special Agent in Charge Joseph Persails highlighted the importance of accountability in breaking the cycle of violence perpetuated by the Lows gang.

DEA Omaha Field Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafael Mattei noted the lethal consequences of Smith's actions, while IRS Criminal Investigation's Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert J. Kuszynski underscored the impact of the gang's violence on Minneapolis communities.

The investigation into the Lows gang is ongoing, with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies working together to dismantle the organization and enhance public safety.