Authorities in Aurora, a Denver suburb, are investigating a disturbing incident where a man and woman, both Venezuelan immigrants, were subjected to a violent home invasion by a group of armed individuals. The victims were tied up, pistol-whipped, and terrorized for approximately five hours at a crime-riddled apartment complex. The man was also stabbed during the ordeal but is expected to survive, according to Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain.
Chamberlain indicated that the attack appeared to be gang-related, with the perpetrators likely affiliated with the Tren de Aragua gang from Venezuela. The gang, originating in a Venezuelan prison, has reportedly expanded due to the economic crisis in the country, leading to an influx of Venezuelan immigrants seeking refuge.
The victims were taken to another apartment within the complex, where they were held against their will before being released after promising not to contact the police. However, they eventually sought help from authorities after driving to a friend's home. Police have detained 14 individuals for questioning but have not made any arrests yet.
City officials have taken legal action to close down most of the complex, citing it as a criminal nuisance due to the owner's alleged neglect that allowed criminal activities to thrive. The property owner, CBZ Management, did not contest the closure, with plans to shut down five buildings early next year.
Chamberlain criticized both the complex's management and the federal government for not adequately addressing the challenges posed by the influx of Venezuelan immigrants. He highlighted the need for cities like Aurora to address the aftermath of a flawed system that failed to support immigrants effectively.
