In 1985, Despite worries about violence between youths and security personnel in Soweto and other significant townships, a National Day of Prayer was calmly observed. Photo: PEXELS/Luis Quintero
Crips gang co-founder had his ashes sprinkled in Soweto
The West Side Crips are one of the world’s most notorious street gangs, known for ruling the streets of Los Angeles. Here’s more.
In 1985, Despite worries about violence between youths and security personnel in Soweto and other significant townships, a National Day of Prayer was calmly observed. Photo: PEXELS/Luis Quintero
The West Side Crips are one of the world’s most notorious street gangs, known for ruling the streets of Los Angeles – and for being intrinsically part of the hip-hop music storyline told by hundreds of artists.
But did you know that the Los Angeles street gang’s cofounder had his ashes sprinkled in Soweto, South Africa, as his last wish?
After Stanley Williams was executed by lethal injection in 2005, his ashes were brought to Southern Africa in accordance with what he wanted.
Here’s more about the person and his story.
Crips Co-Founder Stanley Williams
Stanley Williams III was born on 29 December 1953 – and would become one of the most feared gang leaders on the West Side (Los Angeles) as a teenager.
He was soon known as a ruthless fighter and rose in the ranks of street gangs fast.
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Eventually, his reputation would make Stanley one of the co-founders of the Crips gang, whose opposition is most famous as the Bloods.
He was arrested for third-degree murder, though he would maintain his innocence for these crimes until his death. During the time leading up to his death, celebrities like Snoop Dogg campaigned for a stay of execution – though attempts were unsuccessful.
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Stanley was executed by lethal injection on 13 December 2005 in San Quentin.
Crips gang co-founder had his ashes sprinkled in Soweto: Did you know?
The Crips gang co-founder was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and died in San Quentin, California.
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According to reports, his last wishes were to have his ashes scattered into a lake at Thokoza Park, Soweto, South Africa.
The wish was honoured by his friends Barbara Becnel and Shirley Neal in June 2006.
Who are they?
According to Britannica.com, the Crips are one of the most famed and feared street gangs in the United States – associated with the colour blue,
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Raymond Washington and Stanley Williams founded the group, whose main rivals are considered the Bloods.
The name originates from “cribs”, which later became “crips” as the members originally walked around with canes to showcase their status.
