Big U, a prominent figure in the music industry and alleged leader of a criminal organization, is facing serious legal challenges as federal prosecutors bring forth a 43-count indictment against him. Eugene Henley Jr., known as Big U, is accused of murder, racketeering, fraud, and other serious crimes, including the alleged murder of aspiring rapper Raawn Williams. The indictment paints a picture of a man whose dual identity as a community activist was allegedly a facade for criminal activities tied to the Roland 60s neighborhood Crips.
Big U, 58, has been a significant presence in South Los Angeles, credited with launching the careers of various artists, including the late Nipsey Hussle. His organization, Developing Options, was initially perceived as a community initiative aimed at reducing gang violence. However, federal authorities assert that this was a cover for a more sinister operation, claiming that Big U utilized his connections to further a criminal enterprise.
Among the most serious allegations against Big U is the murder of Raawn Williams, a 21-year-old rapper signed to his label, Anique Music. Prosecutors allege that in January 2021, after Williams recorded a diss track that targeted Big U, he was kidnapped and subsequently murdered. His body was reportedly discovered near Las Vegas, showing signs of gunshot wounds to the face. Federal investigators allege that Big U attempted to cover up the crime by ordering the removal of potential incriminating evidence, including studio recordings and surveillance footage.
In addition to the murder charge, Big U faces multiple counts of racketeering under the RICO Act, with accusations of orchestrating violent crimes to maintain control over his organization. The indictment details a range of criminal activities, including extortion, fraud, and human trafficking. Notably, prosecutors claim that Big U embezzled funds from his nonprofit, diverting taxpayer money intended for anti-gang initiatives into personal accounts.
While the evidence against Big U primarily consists of wiretap conversations and circumstantial evidence, he vehemently denies the allegations. In social media posts prior to his arrest, Big U characterized the charges as unfounded attempts to tarnish his reputation as a community leader. Following his surrender to authorities in March 2025, he has maintained his innocence, arguing that the accusations are baseless.
As the case unfolds, it raises significant questions about the intersection of hip-hop culture, community leadership, and criminal activity. The prosecution’s reliance on circumstantial evidence in the Williams murder case suggests complexities that may challenge the narrative presented against Big U. His upcoming trial, tentatively scheduled for May 20, 2025, will provide an opportunity for the defense to counter the prosecution’s claims.
A particularly contentious aspect of this case is the lingering speculation connecting Big U to the 2019 murder of Nipsey Hussle, a high-profile incident that shook the hip-hop community. While Big U played a central role in Hussle’s early career, no charges have been filed against him regarding Hussle’s death. Allegations linking him to the murder are mostly grounded in social media commentary and lack concrete evidence.
As the legal proceedings continue, the implications of Big U’s case extend beyond his personal fate, highlighting the potential for betrayal within communities that rely on figures like him for leadership and support. The accusations against him suggest a troubling narrative of power misused for personal gain, raising significant concerns about accountability and the impact of criminal enterprises on community initiatives.
Big U remains in federal custody, having been denied bail due to the severity of the charges against him. If convicted, he could face life in prison, marking a dramatic fall from grace for a man once celebrated as a pillar of his community. As the trial approaches, the public and the hip-hop community will be watching closely to see how this complex story unfolds.