Federal charges have been announced against 22 members and associates of the Trinitarios gang, a transnational criminal organization. The individuals face charges including racketeering conspiracy related to six murders and 11 attempted murders. Two juveniles are also charged with murder by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office.
The investigation into the Trinitarios gang began after four murders and several shootings in Lynn, Massachusetts, in 2023. Authorities identified Trinitarios chapters in Lawrence, Lynn, Boston, and Haverhill, Massachusetts. Members allegedly use violence to control neighborhoods and rival gangs.
The gang is accused of committing at least ten homicides in Essex County over the past decade. Sixteen members face charges for six murders, including incidents in Lawrence in 2017 and two double murders in Lynn in 2023.
The Trinitarios operate as a hierarchical organization with defined roles. Enmanuel Paula-Cabral is alleged to be the State Supreme leader for Massachusetts, overseeing activities and coordinating with other leaders. Ery Jordani Rosario is said to hold the position of "Flag" or "Segundo."
The gang reportedly uses a written "Magna Carta" outlining its structure and rules, featuring slogans like “Trinitarios Hasta La Muerte.” Recruitment efforts target Dominican communities, particularly juveniles in high schools.
Initiation into the gang often involves completing violent acts known as "missions." New members receive ceremonial beaded necklaces upon induction. The gang also uses social media to project power through music videos depicting violence.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley stated that this operation significantly disrupts the Trinitarios' activities in Massachusetts: “Today’s law enforcement operation has struck a significant blow against the leadership of the Trinitarios operating in Massachusetts.”
Michael J. Krol from Homeland Security Investigations emphasized that transnational criminals will not find refuge in the U.S.: “We are working every day...to make our streets safer.”
Jodi Cohen from the FBI highlighted collaboration among agencies: “This operation is another example of how...our law enforcement partners work together to dismantle large-scale...organizations.”
Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoff Noble affirmed commitment to addressing gang violence: “Operations like this show...we are committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners.”
Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker noted community safety improvements: “The residents of Essex County are safer today with the dismantling of this violent criminal enterprise.”
Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy expressed gratitude for collaborative efforts: “These significant arrests will undoubtedly prevent further harm to our community.”
Manchester Police Chief Peter Marr praised joint efforts: “By arresting multiple gang members involved...we are reinforcing the commitment to making our community safer.”
Charges include RICO conspiracy with potential life sentences or fines up to $250,000 depending on specifics like murder involvement.