An investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has led to federal charges against two dozen individuals linked to the Trinitarios gang, a transnational criminal organization. Eight alleged members were arrested on February 19, with 22 people facing federal charges including racketeering conspiracy related to six murders and 11 attempted murders. The Essex County District Attorney’s Office has charged two juveniles with murder.
The investigation began after a series of violent incidents in Lynn, Massachusetts in 2023, attributed to the Trinitarios. According to court documents, the gang operates in several Massachusetts cities and uses violence to dominate rival gangs and control neighborhoods. ICE's Homeland Security Investigations identified that the gang is responsible for at least 10 homicides in Essex County over the past decade.
“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,” said Michael J. Krol, ICE HSI New England Special Agent in Charge.
The Trinitarios are structured hierarchically with leadership roles at state and local levels. Enmanuel Paula-Cabral allegedly serves as the State Supreme of Massachusetts, coordinating activities across multiple states. Recruitment efforts target communities of Dominican immigrants, often involving juveniles.
According to charging documents, new members undergo an initiation process involving acts of violence before being formally inducted into the gang. The organization also projects power through social media by producing content that boasts about its criminal activities.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley stated: “This enforcement action ends the Trinitarios reign of terror in Massachusetts... If you threaten the safety of our residents, we will find you, we will hold you accountable.”
FBI Special Agent Jodi Cohen added: “We believe those arrested today... have allegedly shown a reckless indifference to human life.”
Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoff Noble emphasized that operations like this demonstrate their commitment to combating crime alongside law enforcement partners.
Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker remarked on the successful dismantling of a violent criminal enterprise, while Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy highlighted collaborative efforts leading to these significant arrests.
Manchester New Hampshire Police Chief Peter Marr praised the cooperation with federal agencies: “By arresting multiple gang members involved in violent criminal activities throughout the region, we are reinforcing the commitment to making our community safer.”
Charges include racketeering conspiracy and Hobbs Act conspiracy, which carry severe penalties including potential life imprisonment.
The operation was conducted by ICE HSI New England’s Strike Force with assistance from various law enforcement agencies including Massachusetts State Police and FBI Boston Division.
