TREN DE ARAGUA:
CRIMINAL ACTIVITY AND U.S. FEDERAL RESPONSE UNDER THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

February 17, 2025

The Venezuelan transnational criminal organization Tren de Aragua (TdA) has significantly expanded its operations across the United States, engaging in drug trafficking, human trafficking, firearms smuggling, and other organized criminal activities. Since December 2024, nearly 200 TdA-linked arrests have been made across 22 states, reflecting an intensified crackdown by federal and state law enforcement agencies.

1. EXECUTIVE ORDER AND DESIGNATION OF TDA AS A TERRORIST ORGANIZATION

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an Executive Order titled “Designating Cartels and Other Organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists.” This order enabled the U.S. government to designate Tren de Aragua as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). The designation authorizes the seizure of assets, travel bans, and enhanced criminal penalties for individuals providing material support to TdA.

The order states that criminal organizations like Tren de Aragua and MS-13 pose an extraordinary threat to U.S. national security, foreign policy, and the economy. It also declares a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to combat transnational criminal enterprises involved in violent crime, drug smuggling, and human trafficking.

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  • UPDATED APRIL 25, 2025

STATE OF NORTH DAKOTA

North Dakota, known for its relative safety and low crime rates, has recently encountered challenges tied to the presence of transnational criminal organizations like the Tren de Aragua (TdA). This Venezuelan prison gang, infamous for its involvement in theft, fraud, human trafficking, and drug-related crimes, is believed to be expanding its operations into the region. A notable incident in West Fargo involved an ATM theft linked to TdA members, marking the gang's first significant activity in the state.

The emergence of TdA in North Dakota raises concerns about public safety, particularly in areas with growing migrant populations. While the majority of Venezuelan migrants contribute positively to local communities, criminal groups like TdA exploit migration trends to establish networks and expand their influence. Law enforcement agencies are collaborating with federal authorities to monitor this threat, focusing on dismantling criminal operations and preventing further infiltration.

The situation highlights the need for proactive measures to safeguard communities and address the complexities of migration and transnational crime.

West Fargo Traffic Stop Leads to Felony Theft Arrest

Location: West Fargo, North Dakota

Date: November 26, 2024

Description: An ATM theft in West Fargo was linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA). This incident highlighted the gang’s potential expansion into North Dakota, as investigators identified connections to a broader network of organized criminal activities.

Accused: Henry Theis (25), suspected TdA member.

Crime: ATM theft, suspected ties to organized crime.

Jurisdiction: West Fargo Police Department, in collaboration with federal law enforcement.

Status: He was pulled over for having a taillight out but was arrested for felony theft.

Sources: Valley News Live


  • UPDATED OCTOBER 20, 2025

STATE OF COLORADO

The Tren de Aragua (TdA) is a dangerous criminal syndicate that began in Venezuela’s Aragua state over ten years ago. Originally known for its ruthless control over local communities, the gang has since spread its operations across South America, engaging in crimes like kidnappings, extortion, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. More recently, TdA has extended its reach into the United States, with a noticeable presence in Colorado, especially in the Aurora and Denver metropolitan areas. This expansion has coincided with the arrival of Venezuelan migrants fleeing their homeland’s ongoing economic and political crises.

In Colorado, TdA’s activities have sparked alarm among residents and law enforcement. The gang has been tied to a surge in violent incidents, including shootings and abductions, which have unsettled neighborhoods once considered safe. The group’s presence has added a layer of complexity to the challenges faced by communities already grappling with the integration of migrant populations.

In January 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) launched a major operation across Colorado, arresting several TdA members suspected of orchestrating drug trafficking and violent crimes. This coordinated effort reflects a broader push to dismantle the gang’s growing network in the state. Federal and local agencies are working together to target key operatives, aiming to disrupt TdA’s ability to operate and restore a sense of security to affected areas.

Summary of notable incidents:

Suspect pleads guilty in Aurora break-in and kidnapping (Serpa-Acosta)

Location: Aurora, Colorado

Date: October 20, 2025

Description: Neifred Serpa-Acosta, previously linked to a viral kidnapping and assault incident, pleaded guilty to charges of burglary, assault, and weapons offenses.

Accused: Neifred Zerpa-Acosta

Crime: Burglary; assault; weapons offenses

Jurisdiction: Arapahoe County

Status: Pleaded guilty.

Source: 9 News

 

Thirty charged in federal case targeting Tren de Aragua

Location: Denver, Colorado

Date: August 18, 2025

Description: Two federal superseding indictments charged 30 individuals in a sweeping case involving firearms trafficking, drug trafficking, and murder-for-hire conspiracies, targeting TdA members and associates.

Accused: Luis Fernando Uribe-Torrealba; Luis Henriquez-Charaima (and 28 others)

Crime: Firearms & drug trafficking; carjacking; murder-for-hire conspiracy

Jurisdiction: DOJ; JTF-Vulcan

Status: Indictments unsealed.

Source: justice.gov

 

DEA-Led Raid on Colorado Springs Underground Nightclub Results in Over 100 Arrests

Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado

Date: April 27, 2025

Description: A DEA-led operation at an unlicensed nightclub resulted in the detention of 114 undocumented individuals, seizure of drugs (including “pink cocaine” or tusi), and weapons. The venue was reportedly frequented by members of TdA and MS-13.

Accused: 114 individuals detained; identities mostly unreleased.

Crime: Suspected immigration violations; alleged involvement in drug trafficking and prostitution.

Jurisdiction: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID); Colorado Springs Police.

Status: Transferred to ICE custody for processing and potential deportation.

Sources: reuters.com

 

Arrest of Suspected Tren de Aragua Member in Denver

Location: Denver, Colorado

Date: April 18, 2025

Description: FBI agents in Denver arrested a Venezuelan national suspected of being affiliated with the Tren de Aragua.

Accused: Unspecified Venezuelan national.

Crime: Suspected affiliation with Tren de Aragua; possible involvement in transnational organized crime activities.

Jurisdiction: Federal Bureau of Investigation – Denver Field Office.

Status: In federal custody.

Sources: FBI Denver

 

ICE Arrests of Suspected TdA Members in El Paso County

Location: El Paso County, Colorado

Date: Early March 2025

Description: ICE officials, in collaboration with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, arrested several suspected Tren de Aragua members as part of an operation targeting the gang’s criminal activity.

Accused: Multiple suspected TdA members (names not specified).

Crime: Gang-related activities (specific crimes not detailed).

Jurisdiction: U.S. (ICE), El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.

Status: Arrested; awaiting legal proceedings.

Source: El Paso County Sheriff

 

Release and Re-arrest of TdA Member in Denver

Location: Denver, Colorado

Date: March 06, 2025

Description: An alleged TdA member with multiple felony charges was released from Denver jail due to “sanctuary city” policies but was immediately pursued and re-arrested by ICE agents.

Accused: Alleged TdA member (name not specified).

Crime: Multiple felonies.

Jurisdiction: Denver Sheriff’s Department, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Status: Arrested by ICE following local release.

Source: AP News

 

Arrest of Pedro Rafael Cartaya-Rojas in Colorado Springs

Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado

Date: March 05, 2025

Description: ICE arrested Pedro Rafael Cartaya-Rojas, a confirmed TdA member who illegally entered in 2023 and absconded from ICE’s Alternatives to Detention program.

Accused: Pedro Rafael Cartaya-Rojas (30).

Crime: Unlawful entry into the U.S., gang affiliation, absconding from ICE monitoring.

Jurisdiction: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.

Status: In ICE custody pending deportation proceedings.

Source: KKTV 11 

 

ICE Denver arrests TdA member found with firearm

Location: Denver, Colorado

Date: February 19, 2025

Description: ICE arrested a Venezuelan national who was illegally in possession of a firearm.

Accused: Ender José Roa Contreras

Crime: Firearm possession; immigration violations

Jurisdiction: ICE

Status: Arrested by ICE.

Source: ice.gov

 

Reports of Downplayed Threats by Colorado Officials

Location: Aurora, Colorado

Date: February 12, 2025

Description: Documents released by America First Legal suggest that Colorado officials allegedly downplayed the threat posed by Tren de Aragua, endangering citizens.

Accused: Colorado officials (accused of minimizing the gang threat).

Crime: Alleged negligence in addressing gang-related threats.

Jurisdiction: Investigation by America First Legal.

Status: Ongoing public scrutiny and investigation.

Source: America First Legal

 

ICE Raids Targeting Tren de Aragua Members in Aurora

Location: Aurora, Colorado

Date: February 05, 2025

Description: ICE, in collaboration with multiple federal agencies, conducted large-scale raids on apartment complexes in Aurora, targeting over 100 suspected TdA members involved in violent activities such as shootings and kidnappings.

Accused: Over 100 suspected TdA members.

Crime: Violent gang activities, including shootings and kidnappings.

Jurisdiction: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service.

Status: Ongoing operations with multiple arrests; exact figures not released.

Source: ABC News

 

DEA Raids Party, Arrests Nearly 50 Undocumented Immigrants and TdA Gang Members

Location: Adams County, Colorado

Date: January 26, 2025

Description: Federal agents raided an improvised nightclub attended by suspected TdA members. The operation resulted in the arrest of nearly 50 individuals and the seizure of drugs, weapons, and cash.

Accused: Approximately 50 individuals, mostly undocumented, suspected of TdA affiliation.

Crime: Drug trafficking, possession of illegal firearms, and immigration violations.

Jurisdiction: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and ATF.

Status: In federal custody.

Source: CBS News

 

Tren de Aragua Gang Members Arrested in Aurora Kidnapping Case

Location: Aurora, Colorado

Date: December 2024

Description: Aurora Police arrested over a dozen TdA individuals following the kidnapping and torture of a migrant couple. Suspect Serpa-Acosta had been previously deported.

Accused: Over a dozen suspected TdA members, including Niefred Serpa-Acosta (20), Anderson Zambrano-Pacheco (25), and Naudi Lopez Fernandez (21).

Crime: Kidnapping, assault, and torture.

Jurisdiction: Aurora Police Department.

Status: Individuals in custody.

Source: New York Post 

 

Shooting at Fitzsimons Place Apartments (Pacheco-Chirinos)

Location: Fitzsimons Place Apartments, Aurora, CO

Date: July 28, 2024

Description: A shooting at the apartment complex resulted in two men being shot.

Accused: Jhonardy Jose Pacheco-Chirinos (22) and Jhonnarty Dejesus Pacheco-Chirinos (24), both documented TdA members.

Crime: Attempted first-degree murder and related charges.

Jurisdiction: ICE (in custody)

Status: Both suspects were arrested on July 29, 2024, and are in ICE custody.

Sources: Aurora Police Department Statement

 

Assault at Whispering Pines Condominiums (Medina)

Location: Whispering Pines Condominiums, Aurora, CO

Date: July 02, 2024

Description: Domestic dispute involving a firearm where the suspect threatened to kill the victim.

Accused: Larry Medina (29), identified as a documented TdA member.

Crime: Felony menacing, Attempted second-degree burglary (x2).

Jurisdiction: Arapahoe District Court

Status: Arrested on July 10, 2024.

Sources: Aurora Police Department Statement

 

Assault Over Unpaid Rent, non-fatal shooting (Mora-Marquez)

Location: Aurora, CO

Date: April 04, 2024 (Incident), April 17, 2024 (Arrest)

Description: Assault stemming from an unpaid rent dispute. The suspect is also linked to a non-fatal shooting.

Accused: Roiberth Daniel Mora-Marquez (23), documented TdA member.

Crime: Aggravated first-degree assault, second-degree kidnapping, illegal discharge of a firearm, among others.

Jurisdiction: Adams District Court, Arapahoe District Court

Status: Arrested.

Sources: Aurora Police Department Statement

 

Domestic dispute with weapon at Whispering Pines Condominiums (Mejia-España)

Location: Aurora, CO (Whispering Pines Condominiums)

Date: March 17, 2024

Description: Domestic dispute involving a weapon.

Accused: Juan Carlos Mejia-España (27), documented TdA member.

Crime: Second-degree kidnapping, felony menacing (x2), false imprisonment, child abuse, among others.

Jurisdiction: Arapahoe District Court.

Status: Arrested.

Sources: Aurora Police Department Statement

 

Aggravated Assault motor vehicle theft (Reyes-Perez)

Location: Aurora, CO; Jefferson County

Date: May 22, 2024 (Arrest), Ongoing (Warrant for Failure to Appear)

Description: Aggravated assault, menacing, and motor vehicle theft. The accused was released on bond and is currently a fugitive.

Accused: Jose Miguel Reyes-Perez (31), documented TdA member.

Crime: Aggravated assault, felony menacing, motor vehicle theft.

Jurisdiction: Jefferson District Court.

Status: Released on bond, currently wanted.

Sources: Aurora Police Department Statement

 

Shooting Near Arapahoe County Probation Office (Calzadilla-Rojas)

Location: Aurora, CO (In front of Probation Office)

Date: January 03, 2024

Description: A non-fatal shooting occurred in front of the Probation Office.

Accused: Luis Miguel Calzadilla-Rojas (32), documented TdA member.

Crime: Attempted first-degree murder, accessory to a homicide, attempt to influence a public servant.

Jurisdiction: Arapahoe District Court.

Status: Arrested on January 3, 2024.

Sources: Aurora Police Department Statement

 

38 Charges Across Multiple Counties (Aranguren-Mayora)

Location: Various locations across Aurora, Adams, Arapahoe, and Boulder Counties

Date: December 2023 – Ongoing.

Description: Numerous crimes across multiple jurisdictions since December 2023, totaling 38 felony charges in five active cases.

Accused: Carlos Aranguren-Mayora (23), Documented member of TdA.

Crime: Includes robbery, theft, burglary, kidnapping, motor vehicle theft, and felony menacing.

Jurisdiction: Arapahoe, Boulder, and Adams District Courts

Status: Multiple active cases, ongoing.

Sources: Aurora Police Department Statement

 

Assault at Whispering Pines Condominiums (Vilchez Medina-Jose)

Location: Aurora, CO (Whispering Pines Condominiums)

Date: November 2023 (Incident), August 05, 2024 (Arrest).

Description: Assault at the Whispering Pines Condominiums.

Accused: Yoendry Vilchez Medina-Jose (33), documented TdA member.

Crime: Felony menacing (x2), third-degree assault (x2).

Jurisdiction: Arapahoe District Court.

Status: Arrested, active cases.

Sources: Aurora Police Department Statement