A Lawrence resident, Derek Mercado, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to possessing a loaded UZI machinegun. The plea was entered before U.S. Senior District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton, who scheduled sentencing for February 18, 2026. Mercado faces up to ten years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
According to court documents, Mercado is identified as a member of the Trinitarios gang. The gang has been linked by authorities to several murders and violent acts throughout Massachusetts. On May 6, 2025, police were alerted to arrest Mercado after a report of domestic violence indicated he had a firearm concealed in a green duffel bag. At that time, Mercado was already wanted on two unrelated matters.
Law enforcement observed Mercado leaving a residence with the green duffel bag and subsequently took him into custody. Authorities recovered an Israel Military Industries UZI model submachinegun from the bag; it contained an extended magazine loaded with 24 rounds. The weapon was later test-fired and confirmed to be functional.
Previous charges against members of the Trinitarios have included armed robbery and murder across various locations in Massachusetts such as Lynn and Lawrence. In recent months, other members have also faced charges related to kidnapping.
“United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Haverhill Police Chief Robert Pistone made the announcement today.”
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard from the Organized Crime and Gang Unit.
“This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.”
