Peel Regional Police Pull Back Curtain on Project Mermaid Investigation
Peel Regional Police announced on Wednesday that their investigation into Project Mermaid, a human‑trafficking case that unfolded across the Greater Toronto Area, has revealed a disturbing network operating behind prison walls.
Carlos Gutierrez: From Convicted Murderer to Alleged Trafficker
Carlos Gutierrez, a 30‑year‑old member of the bloodthirsty MS‑13 street gang, is now facing human‑trafficking charges after being linked to a sex‑trafficking ring that allegedly used the walls of a federal prison as a backdrop.
In 2025 Gutierrez was convicted of attempted murder for the shooting of an elderly dog‑handler in Schömberg under a false identity, receiving a 14‑year sentence after pleading guilty.
Police say he leveraged an unauthorized cell phone while incarcerated to communicate with a female victim, using intimidation, manipulation and threats of violence to control her and profit from her exploitation.
Marcos Ariel Marinoni: Co‑Accused in the Scheme
Marcos Ariel Marinoni, 42, of Mississauga, was arrested alongside Gutierrez and charged with human trafficking and related offences, including obtaining benefits from trafficking and advertising sexual services.
Investigators allege that Marinoni, who bears an MS‑13 tattoo on his forehead, knew the victim through a prison employee and helped coordinate the trafficking operation.
Police Actions and Ongoing Search for Victims
The Vice and Human Trafficking Unit, with assistance from the Ontario Provincial Police and the Correctional Service of Canada, executed four search warrants in Mississauga and the Collingwood area, where Marinoni had relocated.
Det. Sgt. Bob Hackenbrook emphasized that victims are often tricked by traffickers who feign care, and urged anyone who has been exploited to come forward, noting that strength and courage are essential.
Police suspect additional victims exist in the GTA and the Collingwood region and have asked them to contact the Vice and Human Trafficking Unit at 905‑453‑2121 ext. 3555.
MS‑13 Classified as a Terrorist Organization
MS‑13 is officially designated a terrorist organization in both Canada and the United States, underscoring the seriousness of the gang’s criminal activities.
Gutierrez is believed to sit at the top of the MS‑13 Toronto “Clica” hierarchy, overseeing a profitable contract‑killing venture that generated significant income for the gang.
Implications for the Community
The revelation highlights how organized crime can persist behind prison barriers, exploiting vulnerable individuals and leveraging illicit communications.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and to support victims who may be hesitant to report abuse, knowing that help is available through law‑enforcement channels.
