Alleged Montco gang leader charged by feds (PHOTOS)

POTTSTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- One of the alleged leaders of a gang that operated in Montgomery County is now facing federal charges.

The district attorney's office said Jose Charriez, 35, of Pottstown, was one of 47 members of the "Straight Cash Money Gang" arrested last May during "Operation War Ready."

Charriez is now facing federal drug possession and drug trafficking charges after a review of the case by the U.S. Attorney's office.

PHOTOS: Suspects arrested in "Operation War Ready"

"The fact that Charriez is now facing federal charges shows that our federal counterparts recognize his significant role as one of the leaders of the Straight Cash Money Gang," said District Attorney Kevin R. Steele in a statement.

"This was a very violent group who engaged in trafficking drugs and firearms and clashed with a rival gang doing damage to the community in Pottstown."

Charriez faces life in prison and a $2.5 million fine.