Aurora, Colorado, has taken decisive action against the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA), relocating approximately 85 families or individuals from affected apartment complexes and investing in property improvements. Police Chief Todd Chamberlain provided an update on the city's ongoing efforts, including the closure of the Edge at Lowry apartment complex due to significant safety concerns.

The closure, ordered by Judge Shawn Day, stems from what Chief Chamberlain described as severe neglect, intimidation, and even financial extortion by both management and gang members. The complex reportedly suffered from numerous issues, including non-functional appliances, structural damage, and a dysfunctional heating system. A basement area was allegedly used for illicit activities such as drug sales, prostitution, and sex trafficking.

Police searching apartment buildings in Aurora, Colorado (Fox News Digital)

Images related to TdA gang activity (Sources: New York Post, Edward Romero, DEA)

DEA arrest of a suspected Tren de Aragua member in Denver (DEA)

Aurora Police at the scene of a reported home invasion (Fox News Digital)

Aurora Police at the scene of a reported home invasion (Fox News Digital)

Chief Chamberlain highlighted a December kidnapping incident where victims were allegedly tortured and extorted within the complex. Nine suspected gang members were subsequently charged in January. The city has allocated approximately $94,000 to relocate residents and an additional $360,000 to improve living conditions in the affected apartments.

Chamberlain emphasized the importance of community cooperation, noting that information provided by immigrant residents was crucial to uncovering the criminal activity. He reaffirmed the city's commitment to combating criminal organizations and preventing similar situations from occurring in the future. This action follows earlier dismissals of the gang's presence by Governor Jared Polis, whose office initially attributed reports to "imagination."