Paul Rivera Sentenced to Life for TF Mafia Crimes

Paul Rivera, leader of the Brownsville, Brooklyn-based gang ‘Together Forever’—also known as ‘TF Mafia’—was sentenced today to life in prison plus 20 years, following a June 2015 conviction on federal charges including racketeering, murder in aid of racketeering, sex trafficking, narcotics trafficking, money laundering, and witness tampering. The sentencing, delivered at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, marks the end of a years-long prosecution targeting one of New York’s most violent street organizations.

Rivera was found guilty of orchestrating the August 22, 2011, murder of Robert Barber, a perceived rival gang member, outside Rivera’s own tattoo shop at 361 Sutter Avenue in Brownsville. Witnesses confirmed Rivera took a firearm supplied by another TF member, stood in the doorway, and shot Barber once, killing him instantly. He was later paid in cash and heroin for the hit—a cold transaction underscoring the gang’s brutal economy.

But the murder was only one pillar of Rivera’s criminal empire. The trial exposed TF’s decades-long grip on Brooklyn, Pennsylvania, and parts of New Jersey since the 1980s. Under Rivera’s leadership, the gang trafficked cocaine base, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana, while systematically exploiting young women and girls through forced prostitution. Two victims testified: one drawn in at age 14, another forced into sex work at 15—both manipulated through coercion, threats, and violence.

Federal prosecutors also detailed Rivera’s efforts to obstruct justice, including direct attempts to silence cooperating witnesses. These acts, combined with Rivera’s use of firearms in drug operations and the commission of murder, triggered enhanced penalties under federal racketeering statutes. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Taryn Merkl, Alixandra Smith, and Michael Robotti led the prosecution, piecing together financial records, witness statements, and forensic evidence to dismantle Rivera’s defense.

“The defendant’s involvement in violent gang activity, including drug trafficking, the prostitution of young women and girls, and a senseless murder, was a scourge on the community,” said United States Attorney Robert L. Capers. “This case again demonstrates our Office’s unwavering commitment to investigate and prosecute those who perpetrate such crimes.” Capers credited coordination with the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, NYPD, Pennsylvania and New Jersey State Police, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge William F. Sweeney, Jr., called Rivera’s crime spree a testament to his utter disregard for law and human life. “His goal was money and power, and he used intimidation, threats and even murder to assert his dominance over others,” Sweeney said. “His victims and the communities he operated in can breathe a sigh of relief that he will spend the rest of his life in federal prison.” The sentence ensures Rivera will never again set foot on the streets of Brownsville.

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