In July 2025, federal authorities delivered a major blow to MS-13’s presence in Brentwood and Central Islip: Alexi Saenz, known as “Blasty” or “Plaky,” the leader of the local Sailors clique, was sentenced to 68 years in prison. He had previously pled guilty in 2024 to orchestrating eight murders—including the high-profile 2016 killings of two Brentwood high school students, Kayla Cuevas and Nisa Mickens—as well as additional attempted murders, arson, firearms and drug trafficking offenses Department of JusticeAP News. His conviction is widely viewed as a significant step in dismantling that violent clique.
Just a few months later, in January 2025, Jairo Saenz—the brother and second-in-command to Alexi—also pled guilty to racketeering and involvement in seven murders, including the same notorious Brentwood killings ABC7 New YorkAP News. His plea agreement suggests a likely sentence in the 40–60 year range AP News.
Additionally, in April 2025, law enforcement extradited Josue Zepeda Padilla, a suspected MS-13 member, from North Carolina to New York. He’s accused of kidnapping, stabbing, and leaving a 15-year-old in an abandoned building in Brentwood—a crime underscoring that MS-13’s violent reach may still persist at a smaller scale
Brentwood, a town in Long Island, New York, has had issues with MS-13 gangs in the past. People often ask, “Is Brentwood still infested with MS-13 gangs in NY?” MS-13 is a dangerous gang known for violence. While Brentwood faced serious problems before, things have improved significantly in recent years. This article draws on credible law enforcement reports, community leader insights, and verified local data to provide an accurate, trustworthy picture of what’s happening now, what caused the gang issues, and how the town is fighting back. Information here is presented simply and clearly, backed by the experience of security professionals and community advocates who have worked directly on these challenges.
What Is MS-13 and Why Brentwood?
What Is MS-13?
MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, is a transnational criminal gang that started in Los Angeles in the 1980s. It was formed by immigrants from El Salvador and is widely recognized by law enforcement agencies—including the FBI—as one of the most violent gangs in the United States. The gang is known for crimes like murder, extortion, and drug trafficking. Its spread to Brentwood was partly linked to the town’s large immigrant community, as documented in multiple Department of Justice briefings.
Why Did MS-13 Come to Brentwood?
Brentwood has a significant population of immigrants, especially from Central America. Experts in gang prevention have noted that MS-13 often targets vulnerable youth—those facing poverty, language barriers, or social isolation. Socioeconomic studies confirm that certain parts of Brentwood historically struggled with high poverty rates, making it easier for gangs to recruit. However, community leaders emphasize that this has never represented the entire town.
Brentwood’s Past with MS-13
In the mid-2010s, Brentwood faced a spike in MS-13 activity, drawing national attention after several high-profile violent crimes, including multiple murders. These incidents created a lasting perception that the town was unsafe. Verified police crime data and news archives confirm that gang-related crime peaked during this period—but also show steady improvement since then.
Is MS-13 Still a Problem in Brentwood?
Has MS-13 Gone Away?
According to Suffolk County Police statistics and FBI reports, MS-13’s presence in Brentwood has been significantly weakened. Law enforcement operations have led to dozens of arrests and dismantling of local cliques, making it harder for the gang to operate.
How Police Are Helping
Suffolk County Police, working with federal agencies such as the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), have used intelligence-led policing, undercover operations, and community engagement strategies to combat MS-13. The coordinated efforts are cited in official public safety reports as a model for gang suppression.
What the Community Is Doing
Local non-profits, school programs, and faith-based organizations have implemented prevention initiatives, after-school programs, and mentorship networks. These efforts are supported by credible funding sources and proven intervention methods used in other U.S. cities to keep youth away from gang influence.
Challenges That Still Exist
Gangs Targeting Kids
Gang recruitment of vulnerable youth remains a concern, as confirmed by school counselors and youth outreach workers. While the frequency is reduced, prevention programs must stay active to counter the risk.
Brentwood’s Bad Reputation
Outdated media portrayals still create a negative perception of Brentwood. Long-time residents, local journalists, and business leaders are actively working to change this image by highlighting positive developments.
Poverty and Other Issues
Economic inequality remains a factor in gang risk. Data from Suffolk County’s economic reports shows certain neighborhoods still face unemployment and limited resources. Job creation and education access remain essential for long-term safety.
Good Things Happening in Brentwood
Strong Community Spirit
Neighborhood watch groups, cultural festivals, and civic meetings have strengthened local unity. Community-based policing has improved trust, with residents reporting greater cooperation with law enforcement.
Better Economy
New businesses, infrastructure projects, and workforce training programs are improving Brentwood’s economy. Economic growth is a proven deterrent to gang activity, according to criminology experts.
Working with Police
Regular public safety forums and town hall meetings have created transparency between residents and police. This mutual trust has been recognized in regional crime prevention awards.
What’s Next for Brentwood?
Keeping Up the Fight
Experts stress that anti-gang programs must remain funded and active. Prevention, intervention, and enforcement need to work together to ensure long-term safety.
Changing How People See Brentwood
Positive stories—such as new community centers, local entrepreneurs, and youth success stories—are being shared through local media campaigns to reshape Brentwood’s public image.
Lessons for Other Towns
Brentwood’s progress shows that a mix of strong law enforcement, targeted social programs, and economic development can reduce gang influence. These lessons are being shared at crime prevention conferences nationwide.
Is Brentwood still infested with MS-13 gangs in NY? No, it’s not. MS-13 is much weaker now. Police arrests, community programs, and a better economy have helped. There are still some challenges, like protecting kids and fixing poverty. But Brentwood is moving in the right direction. With teamwork, the town can stay safe and strong — much like how understanding complex issues, such as Why Was Roe v. Wade Overturned for Dummies, can help communities make informed decisions.