Suburbs surrounding Denver are witnessing an unexpected surge in activities driven by the infamous Venezuela-based gang called Tren de Aragua, despite not adopting the city’s asylum policies. Presently, these suburban towns, particularly Aurora, have become hotspots for this notorious gang, leading to increased violent crimes and sex trafficking. This alarming situation has been communicated to Fox News Digital by officials from Aurora, situated merely nine miles from Denver.
Danielle Jurinsky, a city council member of Aurora, expressed the gravity of the situation, revealing that several apartment complexes are under the control of this notorious gang. Violence and threats have driven away the staff from these complexes, leaving behind a lawless ambiance. The Tren de Aragua gang seems to have successfully established its operations, intimidating other residents and taking over their apartments.
The gang’s influence has brought about an increase in demand for emergency services according to Jurinsky. However, this rising demand comes at a time when the local police department is stretched thin. The council member noted an increase in incoming requests for assistance from residents and business owners, as well as novel crime types linked to gang activities.
The Tren de Aragua gang members have allegedly committed a series of severe crimes not just in Aurora, but across the country. These activities consist of horrifying incidents such as murdering a nursing student in Georgia and shooting two NYPD officers during an arrest procedure last June. Recent reports suggest that the gang’s leaders have authorized their members to combat any interference from law enforcement, including police in Denver.
Jhonardy Jose Pacheco-Chirino, a reputed leader of this Venezuela-based gang, known by his Spanish moniker, ‘Galleta’ (Cookie), was recently arrested in Aurora. This arrest followed an incident where he brutally assaulted a man at an apartment complex under the gang’s control. The same individual was associated with a shooting incident at the same complex in July, adding to his list of criminal activities.
Despite a population of just about 710,000, Denver ranks first in per capita migrant arrivals. Over 40,000 migrants have entered through the southern border since the previous year. Moreover, the city authorities have reportedly funneled roughly $68 million to assist these arrivals, which has adversely affected emergency services.
In reaction to Denver’s situation, Aurora’s city council, including Jurinsky, passed a 7-3 resolution vowing not to provide resources or support for the immigrants entering their city. They expressed their stance on Fox News’ ‘America’s Newsroom,’ effectively distancing Aurora from actively participating in the current migrant crisis.
The situation in Denver sparked a legislative response in 2017, when it passed a law resisting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. However, this initiative had evident ramifications on neighboring communities. Commissioner Abe Laydon of Douglas County pointed to the pressing issue of resource strain due to the inflow of migrants in tandem with the prevailing legislative environment.
Douglas County reacted to the migrant surge by passing a local ordinance that prohibits unexpected bus stops and migrants’ drop-offs. However, these efforts are stifled by Colorado state law HB19-1124, instituted in 2019. This law prevents direct communication between municipalities and federal immigration enforcement, thereby handcuffing their ability to control migrant influx.
In what appears a desperate plight for autonomy, Douglas and five additional Colorado counties have filed a lawsuit against the state. They assert that the Colorado state law contravenes the U.S. Supremacy Clause, hindering state infringement of federal law, and the Intergovernmental Relationships Provision of Colorado’s constitution, obstructing laws that prevent local governments from working with the federal government.
Despite this legislation, an ICE detention center located within Aurora contends with increasing inmate numbers. Jurinsky commented about the overpopulation and stated a large number of individuals gain release on a weekly basis. However, their inability to liaise with immigration authorities has left them in a difficult predicament.
This crisis is not restricted to Denver or Aurora, but is a national issue according to Joe Gamaldi, national vice president of the Fraternal Order of Police. He raised concerns about the growing influence of South American gangs within the U.S, and the lack of accountability that allows them to spread freely.
In addressing the issues in Aurora specifically, Gamaldi alluded to an essential need for substantial investment in their gang division to lessen the prevalent gang problem. He stressed that criminal justice systems need to take stringent action against these criminals, including potential deportation. Gamaldi rightfully questioned whether arrested gang members will remain behind bars or be deported.
Reflecting on the increasing infiltration of gang members, Chris Swecker, the former head of the FBI’s criminal investigation division, called the situation ‘predictable and preventable.’ He emphasized that federal agencies must collaborate, sharing intelligence to tackle this as an international crime issue, hinting at a crisis reminiscent of the rise of Salvadoran gang MS-13.