Chicago — Two gang intervention workers, one of whom is also a Safe Passage worker, sold a gun to an undercover Chicago police officer during a long-term narcotics investigation, prosecutors said Saturday. Both men are also convicted murderers.
Assistant State’s Attorney Zachary Peasall said that the arrests were part of a “complex” drug investigation that has been going on since November.
On December 7, 49-year-old Miguel Morales sold about 30 grams of cocaine to an undercover officer for $1,200 and then reported for work as a Safe Passage employee in the 6300 block of South Rockwell, Peasall said. The officer allegedly bought cocaine from Morales “several” other times during the course of the investigation.
Then, on January 20, Morales allegedly went with an undercover officer to the illegal gun sale. According to Peasall, Morales remained on the phone with the officer while the officer entered another car to purchase the weapon from Sergio Gomez, 52, for $1,000 cash.
Gomez was convicted of murder in 1994 and received a 40-year sentence. Morales was convicted of murder in 1993 and received a 45-year sentence.
Private attorneys who represented the men said they work for the same outreach program as community liaisons and gang intervention workers.
Gomez’s attorney specifically denied the allegations, reminding Judge Srivastava that he is not accused of selling any drugs. Morales’ attorney stated that he and his fiancée are raising three children.
Prosecutors charged Gomez with being a felon in possession of a firearm and illegal delivery of a firearm. Morales is charged with the illegal sale of a firearm and delivery of cocaine. Srivastava ordered each to pay a $4,000 bail deposit to be released from custody.