The image shows heavily tattooed MS-13 gang members, many displaying prominent “MS” and “13” tattoos across their chests and backs — a signature of the violent Salvadoran-origin gang.

The Case:

In an ongoing federal trial in Los Angeles, prosecutors are highlighting a chilling tattoo as key evidence against Angel Guzman (aka “Splinter”), an alleged MS-13 member.

According to court testimony:

• In March 2017, Guzman and other MS-13 members from the Fulton clique allegedly lured Juan Jose Sibrian into the Angeles National Forest.
• They attacked him in a remote canyon area, stabbing him over 100 times with knives and machetes.
• Prosecutors say Guzman then carved out the victim’s heart with a machete and disposed of the body by tossing it over a cliff edge.

The motive reportedly stemmed from the victim allegedly crossing out MS-13 graffiti and violating gang “rules” by using methamphetamine.

The Incriminating Tattoo:

While awaiting trial, Guzman allegedly got a new tattoo on his chest: a human heart being gripped by clawed hands. Federal prosecutors argue this tattoo directly references the brutal mutilation of Sibrian and serves as a self-incriminating “trophy” of the crime.

This case is part of a larger racketeering prosecution involving multiple ritualistic machete murders committed by the gang in the Los Angeles area. MS-13 is notorious for extreme violence, including machete attacks, to enforce loyalty and instill fear.

The trial underscores the gang’s ongoing presence and brutality in parts of California. These details come from recent reporting by the Los Angeles Times and New York Post.