The North Shore FBI’s Gang Task Force has launched another massive crackdown—this time against what officials are calling Massachusetts’ most dangerous gang: the Trinitarios. In his latest episode, Jason Trimmins unpacks the details of the sweeping federal RICO case that has rocked Essex County and beyond.
Originally founded in the New York prison system, the Trinitarios gang—a predominantly Dominican criminal network—has aggressively expanded along the East Coast, establishing a major presence in Massachusetts. Their stronghold spans key cities, including Lawrence, Haverhill, Methuen, Lynn, Salem, and Peabody, where they’ve clashed with rival gangs such as the Latin Kings, Bloods, Crips, and Gangster Disciples.
Federal authorities have charged 22 alleged Trinitarios members in a high-profile RICO case, tying them to:
- Six murders and 11 attempted murders
- Narcotics trafficking
- Weapons offenses
- Other violent crimes
The severity of the charges and the young ages of both victims and perpetrators have intensified law enforcement’s urgency to dismantle the organization.
This case is the result of years of investigation, culminating in Operation Emerald Crush, a targeted initiative to infiltrate and dismantle Essex County’s gang activity. The North Shore FBI Gang Task Force has significantly increased its RICO prosecutions, signaling a tougher stance on organized crime.
Reflecting on the case, Trimmins admits he intentionally avoided publishing a deep dive on the Trinitarios’ activities in Lynn, fearing potential retaliation. While law enforcement has made a major dent in the gang’s operations, he believes the cycle will continue, as new recruits step in to replace those arrested.
His message to young people? The streets are “done.” With federal authorities cracking down harder than ever, Trimmins warns that gang life is a losing game—one that ends in prison or worse.
Key Takeaways
- The Trinitarios’ expansion in Massachusetts has led to violent conflicts and intensified federal scrutiny.
- The RICO indictment is one of the largest in recent Massachusetts history, with 22 members charged in connection to violent and drug-related crimes.
- The FBI’s aggressive crackdown suggests that RICO cases will become more frequent, making the streets increasingly dangerous for gang members.
This episode serves as a wake-up call about the growing crackdown on organized crime in Massachusetts, particularly in Essex County.
