Two members of the Houston-based street gang “Free Money” have been indicted in connection with a fatal shooting at a local shopping center, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The suspects, identified as Terry and Travonte Ardoin, face charges of murder and attempted murder in aid of racketeering.
The charges stem from a June 2022 incident in which the Ardoins allegedly followed their intended targets in a black Nissan Altima. When one of the victims returned to the vehicle after shopping, the masked suspects reportedly opened fire, striking both individuals. One person was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to court documents, the “Free Money” gang is known to be involved in various violent and criminal activities, including drug trafficking, robbery, and home invasions.
If convicted, the Ardoins face life imprisonment or the death penalty. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Brown and Trial Attorney Ralph Paradiso of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.
The indictments are part of a broader effort under the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative, which aims to reduce gang-related violence in Houston through coordinated federal, state, and local law enforcement operations.
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