Introduction
The Venezuelan prison gang, Tren de Aragua, has established a presence in the United States, leading to increased threats against law enforcement. A recent memo from Homeland Security Investigations has highlighted credible threats to police in various US cities, including Denver and Albuquerque.
Homeland Security Memo
Homeland Security Investigations recently issued a memo to its staff, warning of direct threats from Tren de Aragua to local police officers. The memo, sourced from the Chicago Homeland Security field office, indicates credible information from Colorado about planned attacks on law enforcement. The threats include directives to “green light” shootings of police officers.
Gang Presence in the United States
Tren de Aragua has been infiltrating the United States over recent years. Homeland Security reports that since March 2023, there have been approximately 70 encounters with Tren de Aragua members at the US-Mexico border. These gang members have been slipping past local authorities by avoiding tattoos and other gang markings until they are inside the United States.
Recruitment and Strongholds
The gang has been actively recruiting in major cities such as New York City and Chicago, as well as other sanctuary cities like Denver. Denver has received about 42,000 migrants in the past few years, the highest per capita in the United States. These recruitment efforts have led to an increased presence of Tren de Aragua members in these cities.
Challenges in Vetting and Deportation
Border Patrol faces significant challenges in vetting Venezuelan migrants due to a lack of cooperation from the Venezuelan government, which does not share information about its citizens with US authorities. This complicates efforts to thoroughly vet individuals crossing the border. Additionally, deportation of Venezuelan nationals is minimal, with only a few being accepted by Mexico.
Designation as a Transnational Criminal Organization
The Biden Administration has designated Tren de Aragua as a transnational criminal organization. This designation aims to enhance efforts to combat the gang’s activities and includes offering substantial rewards for information leading to the capture of its leaders in the United States.
Connection to Crimes in the US
Tren de Aragua members have been linked to several high-profile crimes in the United States. Notably, a Venezuelan migrant tied to the gang was involved in the shooting of two NYPD officers last month. This individual later confessed to his gang affiliation and revealed that he received gang tattoos after arriving in the US. He also disclosed that New York City migrant shelters are being used as hubs for gun smuggling, with gang members utilizing food delivery bags to transport firearms.
Attack on NYPD Officers
In January, Tren de Aragua was also believed to be involved in an assault on NYPD officers in Times Square. The gang’s activities have established strongholds in New York City and other sanctuary cities across the country.
Law Enforcement Vigilance
Law enforcement agencies nationwide have been advised to remain vigilant due to the potential threats posed by Tren de Aragua. The increased presence and activities of this violent gang have raised significant concerns for the safety of police officers and the general public.
Conclusion
The rise of Tren de Aragua in the United States represents a serious threat to law enforcement and public safety. Homeland Security Investigations continues to monitor the situation closely, urging local police departments to stay alert and take necessary precautions to protect their officers from potential attacks by this dangerous gang.
