Federal agents recently apprehended a Los Angeles “Peace Ambassador” known as “Diablo” for possessing illegal military-grade body armor in the crime-ridden area of MacArthur Park. This individual had previously received $58,000 from the city despite a history as a convicted killer.
Michael Angel Alvarez, 41, who goes by the alias “Diablo,” is identified as an active member of the 18th Street gang and has a conviction for murder. Federal prosecutors have revealed that Alvarez was being compensated with taxpayer money from Los Angeles for a dubious role as a “Peace Ambassador.”
On Friday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested the notorious felon at MacArthur Park. Alvarez’s possession of body armor is considered a serious offense, carrying a potential sentence of up to five years in federal prison.
Last year, Alvarez received over $58,000 for his involvement with Healing Urban Barrios. This organization had an agreement with the city to implement the Peace Ambassador program in Council District 1, which includes MacArthur Park, as outlined in court documents.
In 2002, Alvarez was convicted of first-degree murder and received a sentence of 50 years to life in state prison. However, he was released by the State of California after serving just 24 years.
