Venezuelan Gangs: Colorado DA Sounds Alarm on 'Giant Issue'

Colorado’s District Attorney George Brauchler is making waves with his blunt assessment of Venezuelan gangs infiltrating the state, calling it a 'giant issue' that's being dangerously downplayed by some. He’s not mincing words about the naïveté of dismissing the problem as a “figment of imagination.”

According to Brauchler, these gangs have taken control of 2-3 apartment complexes in Aurora, Colorado, and there’s no denying the gravity of the situation. While some dismiss the claims as exaggerated, Brauchler insists, "This sort of ignorance-is-bliss approach to the law isn’t just foolish—it’s potentially dangerous." His comments come as Colorado’s sanctuary laws, which limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities, have drawn national scrutiny.

The controversy intensified recently with reports of the Venezuelan immigrant gang Tren de Aragua establishing a foothold in Aurora. The gang’s presence has sparked heated debates, particularly during a House Oversight Committee hearing where Denver Mayor Mike Johnston faced tough questions about his city’s lack of cooperation with federal agencies. Republican Colorado Rep. Gabe Evans went as far as to claim that Denver’s lenient immigration policies effectively invited the gang to set up shop.

Brauchler wasn’t impressed by Johnston’s responses during the hearing. "Deflection doesn’t solve the core issue," Brauchler said, pointing out the underlying debate on whether cities and states should obstruct federal immigration enforcement. Spoiler alert: his answer is a resounding no.

Denver’s stance on immigration enforcement appears to be part of a broader state trend. Since becoming a sanctuary state in 2018 under a Democratic-controlled government, Colorado has implemented policies that prevent immigration law enforcement, including inside courthouses. Brauchler warns this trend is expanding even further, with potential bans on enforcement during the commute to and from courthouses.

In a pointed critique, Brauchler questioned the logic behind these barriers. "Imagine a city or state telling law enforcement they can’t communicate with the FBI about fugitives or the DEA about drug dealers. Yet, for illegal immigrants, these barriers seem to multiply." His frustration is palpable, and honestly, it’s hard not to see the absurdity in some of these policies.

Brauchler remains committed to combating these sanctuary policies, emphasizing the importance of safety for Colorado residents. His message to undocumented immigrants was clear: "Get legal. If you can’t or won’t, then stay on your best behavior. Break our laws, and you can expect no sympathy from me." It’s a tough-love stance, but one that’s undoubtedly gaining traction in a state grappling with this escalating issue.