Cops in Aurora, Colorado Concerned About Venezuelan Prison Gang Terrorizing City
Leaked internal emails reveal that cops in Aurora, Colorado were concerned about migrants in the Venezuelan prison gang Tren de Aragua terrorizing the city as early as last year. However, the department’s leadership and city officials downplayed the situation despite evidence to the contrary.
The correspondence, which Aurora Councilwoman Danielle Jurinsky shared, indicates that the Aurora Police Department was aware of TdA’s presence in the area as far back as November 2023. Some officers expressed frustration with the city’s response to the gang’s criminal activities.
The Post was the first to report on TdA’s infiltration of the city, including its takeover of poorly-maintained apartment complexes and its top leader, nicknamed “Cookie,” who was involved in violent crimes.
Multiple emails indicated that TdA was taking over several apartment complexes across the city, despite officials publicly downplaying the situation.
One sergeant in the homicide unit expressed concern in an email that the denial of TdA’s existence could lead to disastrous consequences if the gang harmed innocent people.
The officer’s email prompted a response from another sergeant in the gang and robbery unit, acknowledging the information sharing challenges within the department.
Another email revealed that the Aurora Police Department was alerted about the Venezuelan gang’s presence in Denver in November 2023, nearly a year before national headlines highlighted the gang’s violent activities in Aurora.
The communication from an officer within the gang intervention unit mentioned a warning from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement about TdA gaining influence in the area.
Despite the challenges, the Aurora Police Department continues to investigate TdA crimes, according to a city spokesperson.
The Aurora Police Department remains vigilant in addressing the criminal activities of Tren de Aragua in the city.
