Full Breakdown
Criminal Activities of Tren De Aragua Gang in New England
2/27/2026, 10:39:21 AM
ATM Jackpotting Conspiracy Uncovered
Two alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren De Aragua (TdA), Moises Alejandro Martinez Gutierrz and Lestter Guerrero, both 29, have been charged with conspiracy to commit bank theft as part of a broader investigation into ATM jackpotting across New England. Federal prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts announced the charges, stating that both men are in the United States illegally. They are accused of executing and attempting robberies at ATMs in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island by installing malware into the machines' software to force them to dispense cash.
The duo was arrested on February 5, 2023, in Augusta, Maine, following an attempted robbery. Martinez Gutierrz is linked to at least five other ATM jackpotting incidents, including robberies on December 31, 2022, in Norwich, Connecticut, and January 20, 2023, in Braintree, Massachusetts. Guerrero is connected to at least one additional robbery on January 30, 2023, in Rochester, New Hampshire. If convicted, they face up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and fines up to $250,000.
Broader Criminal Network
The Tren De Aragua gang has reportedly established various revenue streams through criminal activities, including ATM jackpotting, which has allowed them to steal millions from financial institutions. Court documents indicate that proceeds from jackpotting operations are typically divided, with 50% sent to gang leadership in Venezuela and the remaining 50% distributed among the operatives involved.
Criticism & Opposition
The activities of Tren De Aragua have drawn significant scrutiny from law enforcement and community leaders, who express concerns about the gang's growing influence and violent tactics. Critics argue that the gang's operations not only pose a direct threat to public safety but also highlight the challenges of addressing transnational crime.
Official Statements & Responses
Federal prosecutors have emphasized the seriousness of the charges against Martinez Gutierrz and Guerrero, noting the ongoing investigation into the gang's activities. They stated, “This case underscores our commitment to dismantling criminal organizations that threaten our communities.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the charges against Martinez Gutierrz and Guerrero are clear, there is limited information regarding the full extent of Tren De Aragua's operations in New England. The exact number of individuals involved in the ATM jackpotting conspiracy remains unspecified, and further details about the gang's leadership structure and connections to other criminal activities are still emerging.
What's Next
The investigation into Tren De Aragua's activities is ongoing, with federal authorities continuing to monitor and disrupt their operations. Additional arrests and charges may follow as law enforcement agencies collaborate to address the gang's criminal network.
