A violent transnational gang from Venezuela, known as Tren de Aragua, has reportedly seized control of the Whispering Pines Apartments in Aurora, Colorado. According to a local report, the gang members have engaged in a range of criminal activities, including violent assaults, murder threats, extortion, child prostitution, and strongarm tactics.
A Denver law firm conducted an investigation into the alleged gang takeover of the apartment building. The firm's report, spanning nine pages, highlighted the gang's flagrant trespass violations, assaults, human trafficking, sexual abuse of minors, unlawful firearms possession, extortion, and other criminal behaviors targeting vulnerable Venezuelan and immigrant populations.
The property manager of the apartment complex, with 15 years of experience, described unprecedented levels of violence and intimidation by the gang members. He reported incidents where gang members were arrested for threatening him over rent payments, collecting 'rent' from residents under duress, and resorting to violence against those who refused to comply.
Allegations of the gang hosting parties in vacant units with drugs and child prostitution have raised significant concerns. Surveillance footage showing armed men breaking into an apartment has further intensified scrutiny of the Tren de Aragua's activities in Aurora.
The Aurora Police Department has refuted claims of a complete gang takeover but acknowledged the presence of Tren de Aragua members engaging in criminal behavior in the area. In response, a special task force was established to address the gang's activities and ensure public safety.
Recent arrests of documented and suspected Tren de Aragua members for attempted murder have been seen as a positive step by the community and local authorities in combating the gang's influence in Aurora. Efforts to address the gang's criminal activities continue as law enforcement works to protect residents and maintain security in the city.
