Three local street gang members will now spend the rest of their lives in federal prison without the possibility of parole. The case highlights the deeply entrenched, dangerous connections between localized neighborhood street crews and the highly organized, powerful Mexican Mafia prison syndicate that continues to impact Southern California communities. James Mendez , a 47-year-old known as “Buck,” operated as a Sureño gang member out of Garden Grove. Martinez is an imprisoned high-ranking Mexican Mafia member who allegedly controlled these operations from his cell. The Mexican Mafia Influence on Orange County Street GangsThis violent execution is a direct reflection of the massive criminal footprint the Mexican Mafia generates throughout California.