Gibran Guerrero, also known as “Cojito,” was sentenced on Mar. 23 to 27 years in prison for his role in a series of gunpoint robberies as a member of the Trinitarios gang, including an incident that resulted in the death of Johnny Gaston. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Lorna G. Schofield, according to an announcement from United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York Jay Clayton.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address violent gang activity and its impact on local communities. Guerrero had previously pleaded guilty to one count of racketeering conspiracy and two counts related to firearm use during the robberies.
“For too long, the Trinitarios have used intimidation, robbery, and deadly force to terrorize communities,” Clayton said. “The defendant and his fellow gang members carried out a series of brazen, gunpoint robberies and, in December 2022, lured victims into an ambush that left one man dead, and another seriously wounded. He is now where New Yorkers want him—in prison for 27 years. Today’s 27-year sentence sends a clear message that gang violence will be met with significant consequences.”
According to statements made in court filings and proceedings, Guerrero was involved with the Trinitarios from at least 2021 through 2023. The group engaged in various criminal activities including robbery, fraud, narcotics trafficking, and acts of violence such as murder to fund their operations and protect their territory.
One notable incident occurred on December 15, 2022 when Guerrero and other members lured two victims into an ambush in the Bronx; Johnny Gaston was shot and killed during this robbery while another victim survived after being shot. Additional gunpoint robberies involving Guerrero took place on July 30 and September 26 of that year.
In addition to his prison term, Guerrero—who is now aged 22—was also sentenced to three years of supervised release following his incarceration.
Clayton praised Homeland Security Investigations along with the New York City Police Department for their work on this case. The prosecution was managed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Ly with support from former Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mathew Andrews and Rushmi Bhaskaran.
