LYNN — In a sweeping federal indictment, authorities have charged more than 20 alleged members of the Trinitarios gang, marking a significant step in dismantling the violent organization that has plagued Lynn and surrounding areas for years.
Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy and Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker outlined for The Item the years-long investigation that led to these arrests, emphasizing the gang’s escalating violence and their deliberate recruitment of young members.
According to Reddy, the Trinitarios have had a presence in Lynn since at least 2019, but their involvement in violent crime became more pronounced over the last two years.
“One of our significant concerns is that we believe they were deliberately recruiting younger members—kids as young as 13, 14, and 15—who were on the cusp of transitioning from middle school to high school,” Reddy said. “We believe that was part of their structure, how they operate, and how they groom young people into the gang. They were directed to do the grunt work—carry illegal weapons, transport drugs, engage in acts of intimidation or violence. As they got older, they would be moved into more complex criminal activities like major drug trafficking.”
One of the most pivotal moments in the investigation was the drive-by shooting at 189 Essex St. on Sept. 2, 2023, which killed two young men and injured five others.
“The individuals who perpetrated that awful crime are among those indicted on (February 19),” Reddy confirmed.
Tucker highlighted the work done by local and state law enforcement to build the case.
“The Massachusetts State Police assigned to my office worked closely with Lynn officers, going door-to-door, gathering video, developing confidential sources,” Tucker said. “As the investigation developed, it became apparent this was bigger than we initially thought. We needed federal resources.”
Authorities eventually brought in partners from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the FBI to support the case, leading to a comprehensive indictment against the gang. The charges include drug trafficking, weapons offenses, and violent crimes, with some cases stretching into New Hampshire.
“This is one of the most comprehensive and impactful investigations I’ve been involved in during my 34 years in law enforcement,” said Tucker, a former police chief in Salem.
The crackdown on the Trinitarios gang was not solely about arrests; it also involved extensive prevention efforts. Lynn police and the DA’s office focused on disrupting gang activity through targeted patrols, intervention programs, and community engagement.
“We reintroduced the Home Check Program and, with funding from D.A. Tucker’s office, launched gang suppression patrols,” Reddy said. “We visited at-risk youth, engaged with parents, and worked with organizations like ROCA, LYSOA and our Shannon Grant partners who all offer programs to provide alternatives for young people in our community.
“And I want to acknowledge the support and outreach from Mayor (Jared) Nicholson’s office who worked with us throughout this time to provide opportunities for community members to share their concerns and then helped to develop additional resources and different strategies that were responsive to those concerns.”
Additionally, Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll fast-tracked a $100,000 grant to Tucker’s office to provide funding for both enforcement efforts and community programs.
“Each of these efforts alone isn’t the solution, but when combined—police work, community engagement, suppression patrols, and legal strategies—you see real results,” Tucker said. “We’ve seen a tremendous drop-off in violence because of these efforts.”
While the arrests mark a major victory, authorities acknowledge that the work isn’t over. Both Reddy and Tucker emphasized their commitment to maintaining safety and preventing future gang activity.
“We want the community to know that we’re here, we’re engaged, and we’re not letting up,” Reddy said. “This isn’t just about law enforcement—it’s about ensuring kids can go to school safely, that families don’t live in fear, and that our neighborhoods thrive.”
With the indictment now unsealed and major arrests made, the focus shifts to prosecution and continued vigilance.
“This is a tremendous outcome, but the work goes on,” Reddy said. “We know there will always be individuals looking to fill the vacuum left by these arrests. But let this be a message: To those who would seek to commit crimes and do harm in our community: We are coming for you.”
Tucker echoed that sentiment, underscoring the importance of keeping the pressure on gangs operating in Essex County.
“The residents of Lynn should know: We’re on this, and we will continue to be on this,” he said.
The arrests, suppression efforts, and community outreach initiatives have collectively led to a significant drop in gun violence and crime in the area.
“This was a true partnership,” Reddy said. “None of this happens without the commitment of our officers, state police, and federal partners along with the work by the Essex County District Attorney’s office and the Office of the United States Attorney. And the results speak for themselves.”
