Event
In 1988 a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Michigan returned a large indictment against members of the Chambers Brothers Organization. A joint trial began in October 1988 against senior members and associates.
Charges
The prosecution included narcotics conspiracy, continuing-criminal-enterprise, firearm, and related charges. Federal appellate opinions describe the underlying organization as a structured crack network led by Larry and Billy Joe Chambers.
Result
Senior leaders and organization members were convicted, and the resulting sentences and appeals effectively ended the organization’s period as a major Detroit crack-distribution enterprise.