Venezuelan Gang Expands Criminal Operations Across Western U.S.

Western U.S. – Members of the Venezuelan prison gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) have extended their criminal operations into western states, including Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming. The gang’s growing influence has coincided with an influx of Venezuelan migrants entering the U.S., many of whom were released by the Biden administration amidst the ongoing border crisis.

TdA Arrests Highlight Criminal Expansion

In Arizona, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office arrested a confirmed TdA member involved in human smuggling. The 25-year-old Venezuelan, who entered the U.S. illegally in Texas and was later released while seeking asylum, was apprehended as part of the case, according to KVOA News 4.

In Colorado, a string of TdA-related crimes prompted the Aurora Police Department to form a task force comprising state, local, and federal law enforcement to combat gang activity. Investigations have revealed a broad network of crimes, including a multi-state ATM theft ring spanning Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Wyoming, and Ohio.

High-Profile Incidents

TdA’s crimes have been both brazen and violent. In Denver, a jewelry store heist turned violent when suspects pistol-whipped two women and pulled guns on employees. One suspect, with a criminal record, was later arrested on charges including attempted first-degree murder and aggravated robbery.

In another case, eleven individuals, including TdA members, were charged in connection with a violent abduction and assault of a couple at a Denver-area apartment complex. Eight suspects are in custody, while others remain at large.

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Impact on Vulnerable Communities

A Colorado law firm’s investigation alleged that TdA members had taken over an Aurora apartment complex, engaging in human trafficking, sexual abuse of minors, extortion, and assaults. The gang reportedly targeted immigrant populations, including Venezuelans, while threatening to kill apartment management.

Expanding Presence in Utah and Wyoming

TdA-related crimes have also been reported in Utah, where incidents occurred in Herriman and Millcreek. State data indicates that many incarcerated illegal border crossers in Utah have been charged with serious offenses, including murder and sexual assault.

In Wyoming, a suspected TdA member was arrested in Laramie County for stealing a vehicle from Colorado Springs. Sheriff Brian Kozak of Laramie County has been vocal about the impact of sanctuary city policies in Colorado, which he argues have contributed to rising crime in neighboring states like Wyoming.

Law Enforcement Response

Sheriff Kozak has actively recruited officers from Colorado, emphasizing Wyoming’s support for law enforcement. His office even funded a billboard in Denver encouraging officers frustrated by defunding and restrictive policies to work in Wyoming.

Denver has faced criticism for allocating millions in migrant services while making budget cuts to its police department. Meanwhile, the state line between Colorado and Wyoming now features a billboard warning drivers of potential Venezuelan-related crime ahead.

Border Crisis Fuels Crime Wave

More than one million Venezuelans have entered the U.S. under the Biden administration, nearly doubling Wyoming’s population. As TdA violence spreads, officials and communities across the western U.S. continue grappling with its far-reaching consequences.