In a disturbing incident, Aurora, Colorado police apprehended over a dozen individuals suspected of being members of the notorious Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua (TdA). The arrests stem from a brutal home invasion and kidnapping that left two victims with serious injuries.
Police Chief Todd Chamberlain expressed strong confidence in linking the suspects to TdA, citing the extreme violence employed during the crime. While acknowledging the difficulty of definitively confirming gang affiliation, Chamberlain emphasized the circumstances surrounding the incident pointed towards TdA involvement.
The suspects allegedly broke into an apartment, bound, beat, stabbed, and kidnapped a couple residing within the Edge at Lowry Apartments. They also reportedly stole jewelry from the victims. Chief Chamberlain revealed that the couple had been subjected to ongoing extortion by the gang, forced to pay $500 every two weeks. He believes other residents may have also been targeted.
Nineteen suspects were initially detained. Three were released, eight remain under investigation, and eight are in ICE custody. Potential charges include kidnapping, aggravated robbery, assault, extortion, and burglary. The Aurora Police Department is collaborating with ICE, DHS, and Homeland Security Investigations to identify those involved and confirm any gang affiliations.
Chief Chamberlain stressed that the police conducted a targeted investigation, not a “mass sweep,” and that the department assists all victims regardless of immigration status.
