GREENBELT, Md. — Federal prosecutors in Maryland and Washington, D.C., announced on Tuesday the launch of a national hotline to f*ght the MS-13 gang.
The El Salvadoran gang is involved in drug smuggling and human trafficking, and there have been k*llings and other MS-13-related gang activity reported in Anne Arundel, Frederick, Prince George's and Montgomery counties.
The crimes often lead to murder and other acts of violence, authorities said.
Maryland U.S. Attorney Robert Hur said it's important for the public to help police f*ght MS-13.
"We handle this information very carefully, with the utmost respect and concern for the safety of witnesses. When conducting federal investigations, teams of federal agents and task force officers understand the risks posed by MS-13 and keep information about victims and witnesses confidential," Hur said.
The new hotline is 866-STP-MS13 (866-787-6713).