Venezuelan Gang Tren de Aragua Expands U.S. Presence Despite Early Warnings
Authorities in Aurora, Colorado, were aware of the gang's activities over a year ago, but responses have been criticized as insufficient.
- Aurora City Councilwoman Danielle Jurinsky revealed documents showing local police knew about Tren de Aragua's activities in apartment complexes since last year.
- The Department of Homeland Security identified over 600 migrants with possible ties to the gang, recommending 100 for the FBI watchlist.
- Critics argue that sanctuary policies in Denver have facilitated the gang's establishment of a U.S. headquarters in the area.
- Despite the gang's known presence in 15 states, fewer than 5% of identified individuals with ties to the gang are in federal custody.
- Authorities face challenges in tracking gang members due to Venezuela's lack of cooperation in sharing criminal data.