‘Wild Cowboys’ Convicted In Killings

Eight of nine leaders of the “Wild Cowboys” car-theft and drug gang, suspected in at least 30 slayings, were convicted Monday of murder and conspiracy.

The Manhattan Supreme Court jury deadlocked on a murder charge against the ninth defendant, but convicted him of conspiracy.

One defendant, Daniel Rincon, 22, was convicted of six murders. Other defendants were convicted in at least four other killings. All nine also were convicted of lesser charges, including weapons, assault and attempted murder counts. They all face life in prison.

The nine were among 42 people named in indictments that alleged at least 10 murders throughout New York City. Nine more are awaiting trial; 24 have pleaded guilty to various charges of murder, drug sales, assaults and conspiracy.