A multi-agency investigation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) has resulted in federal charges against nearly two dozen leaders, members, and associates of the Trinitarios gang, a violent transnational criminal organization.
On February 19, 2025, HSI special agents, along with state and local law enforcement partners, arrested eight alleged gang members. A total of 22 individuals have been charged with federal offenses, including racketeering conspiracy in connection with six murders and 11 attempted murders. Additionally, two juveniles have been charged by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office with murder.
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The investigation, launched in the wake of several violent incidents in Lynn, Massachusetts, in 2023, uncovered a network of Trinitarios chapters operating in Lawrence, Lynn, Boston, and Haverhill. These chapters allegedly used intimidation, violence, and murder to establish control over their territories.
According to court documents, the Trinitarios have been linked to at least 10 homicides in Essex County over the past decade. The gang is also believed to be responsible for numerous attempted murders, shootings, kidnappings, and robberies.
“Today the message should be loud and clear: transnational criminal organizations and foreign-born malign actors committing violent acts in our communities will never have refuge in the United States. We are working every day with our state, local, and federal partners to tackle transnational crime from all angles with all of the resources available to us to make our streets safer,” said ICE HSI New England Special Agent in Charge, Michael J. Krol.
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“Gang violence, as well as illegal gun and drug trafficking, have no place in the Commonwealth,” said Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoff Noble. “Operations like this show the Massachusetts State Police is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to find those responsible for these crimes, arrest them, and pursue justice. Getting these criminals off the street makes Massachusetts a safer place to live.”
The Trinitarios, a hierarchical organization, recruit members from Dominican immigrant communities, often targeting young people. New members are subjected to a rigorous initiation process, including acts of violence and oaths of loyalty.
The gang is known for its use of social media to project power and intimidate rivals. Members often post videos and music that glorify violence, drug trafficking, and gang life.
“This operation is a significant blow to the Trinitarios’ leadership in Massachusetts,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley. “The removal of these violent offenders from our streets will make our communities safer.”
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