Aurora, Colorado, is grappling with the presence of a dangerous Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua (TdA), which has reportedly taken control of an apartment complex, leaving residents in a state of constant fear. The gang, originally from Venezuelan prisons, has extended its criminal activities to the United States, making Aurora one of its latest strongholds.
The Edge apartment complex, located at 1568 Nome St. near Colfax and Peoria, has become a hotbed for the gang’s activities. Social media videos show members of TdA openly carrying firearms as they patrol the complex’s hallways. Cindy Romero, a resident of the complex, described the situation as a “nightmare,” recounting how she and her husband had to install multiple locks on their door to feel even remotely safe.
The city of Aurora has responded by citing numerous code violations at the complex and moving to shut it down. CBZ Management, the company overseeing the building, has expressed frustration, saying that the gang’s presence has made it impossible to perform essential maintenance.
The Aurora Police Department acknowledges the presence of TdA in the area but has described the situation as “isolated.” However, residents feel the threat is widespread and pervasive, impacting their daily lives. The gang is known for its involvement in human trafficking, drug smuggling, and extortion, crimes that have now reached the streets of Aurora.
City Council member Danielle Jurinsky has criticized the lack of support for residents, pointing out that while help is available for migrants, American citizens are left to fend for themselves in these dangerous conditions.
As Aurora struggles with this crisis, the safety of its residents hangs in the balance, highlighting the broader challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations in local communities.
