Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Federal agents just scored a big win in Colorado. A massive case has slammed 30 alleged members and associates of Tren de Aragua (TdA) — a violent Venezuelan gang that’s been creeping into U.S. cities — with charges ranging from drug trafficking to murder-for-hire.
This isn’t some low-level bust. The indictments include several alleged leaders, both in Colorado and abroad, and tie the gang to brutal crimes like kidnappings, carjackings, and shootings in Denver and Aurora.
Authorities even say TdA treated murder like a business deal, with some suspects bragging about “bringing back heads” for extra pay.
Table of contents
From Aurora Apartments to Global Extraditions
The investigation kicked off after violence spiked at an Aurora apartment complex. That spot became ground zero for a nine-month undercover operation led by ATF, with help from DEA, HSI, ICE, and local cops.
Agents seized 69 guns — including machine guns — and plenty of narcotics, from cocaine and meth to “Tusi,” a pink designer drug cooked up in Venezuela.
Meanwhile, two high-level suspects — Luis Fernando Uribe-Torrealba and Luis Henriquez-Charaima — were tracked down and arrested in Colombia at the end of July.
They’re now facing extradition to the U.S. on charges that include murder-for-hire conspiracies and carjacking.
Murder-for-Hire Like It’s a Game
What made this takedown stand out was the level of violence and cold-blooded attitude exposed.
ATF undercover agents were offered killings for hire, with one suspect casually comparing it to playing golf.
SEE ALSO: A New Gun for the Old West: Henry Golden Boy Revolver Review
Local coverage from CBS Colorado called it “barbaric,” with investigators stressing these weren’t empty threats — these were the same guys already committing crimes in Aurora.
U.S. Attorney for Colorado Peter McNeilly put it bluntly: “We will not let you use Colorado as your headquarters in the United States. Bring your dangerous crimes here, and we will hunt you down.”
Why Colorado?
According to investigators, TdA chose Colorado deliberately. The gang saw opportunity in Aurora, where immigrant assistance programs gave them a foothold and weak property oversight let them operate out of certain apartment complexes.
Once they had a base, more members and associates followed.
FOX’s coverage noted that while Colorado has become a hub, TdA’s reach doesn’t stop there — Miami, Chicago, and Kansas City are also on the radar. This is a nationwide fight.
Part of a Bigger Push
This case falls under Operation Take Back America, the DOJ’s aggressive campaign to dismantle foreign cartels and gangs operating on U.S. soil.
Tren de Aragua was officially designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization earlier this year, and prosecutors are now treating them the same way they went after MS-13.
Officials say this takedown is a major disruption to the gang’s Colorado network, but they’re not slowing down. Local law enforcement stressed that while the indictments are a huge step, rooting out TdA completely will take more time.
Big Picture
For neighborhoods in Aurora that have lived with the fear of shootings, robberies, and drug-fueled violence, this bust brings a breath of relief.
Families at the Ivy Crossing apartments, one of the hotspots, may finally see some peace. As one federal agent told CBS Colorado, this isn’t just about arrests — it’s about giving those neighborhoods “a safer and more hopeful future.”
The message from law enforcement is clear: whether in Colorado or Colombia, TdA isn’t safe from federal reach.
*** Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica! ***
Available on GunsAmerica Now
is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
Experience:
– Licensed Bowhunter, Hunter, and Trapper – Experienced in ethical hunting and wildlife conservation.
– Concealed Carry Permit Holder (NYS & AZ) – Trained and licensed to carry in multiple states.
– 2A Journalist – Covering firearms legislation, Second Amendment issues, and gun rights for over a decade.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Certified to provide emergency medical care in the field.
– Field-Tested Gear Reviewer – Hands-on experience with firearms, optics, and hunting tech.
I live in Colorado. CBS is right there to support the Lefty idiots such as Polis and Coffman and their ilk because they want to be a ‘Sanctuary city’, and our safety and economy are suffering for it.
I no longer go to Downtown Denver because of this, the last time I went there to enjoy a night out with friends and spouses, we were harassed twice while walking the Mall by people demanding money. I literally had to show one clown my firearm to make him understand to back off, he followed us for blocks berating and threatening us and my Wife was on hold for 911.
No more. And you don’t dare walk certain areas, unless you really want a fight.
When I moved here in the 90’s, it was clean and fun. Too bad, and the restaurants are suffering for it.
The Democrats don’t care, and they deny it.
Count yourself lucky. Brandishing a firearm is illegal in all 50 states. Sure, I found your account compelling, and most probably would but not all. The wrong LEO or AG could or even a savvier antagonist could have caused you to become a felon. Who knows how that could have ended since we are under some threat. Pretty sure your manners would have been exemplary throughout though.
According to an article I just read on gun digest… It is not illegal to show someone your firearm if you’re being threatened or feel you are being threatened or in danger so no… It is NOT illegal in 50 states. I would imagine the same as through in showing versus brandishing. From my understanding, he showed it to him and did not pull it but even if he had pulled it, if he was feeling threatened then he’s legal. Maybe not all 50 states agree with that assessment but I know for a fact that all 50 states do not make that illegal.
Brandishing a gun refers to the act of displaying a firearm in a threatening manner, which can lead to serious legal consequences.
Definition of Brandishing
Brandishing a firearm is generally defined as displaying a weapon, typically a gun, in a way that is intended to intimidate or threaten others. This can include showing the firearm openly, waving it around, or even just making its presence known in a manner that causes fear or alarm in others.
USLawShield
Legal Implications
Legality: Brandishing a firearm is illegal in all 50 states, although the specific definitions and penalties can vary significantly by jurisdiction. Some states explicitly use the term “brandishing,” while others may refer to it as “improper display” or “exhibiting” a firearm.
Intent Matters: The key factor that distinguishes legal carrying from illegal brandishing is the intent behind the display. If the firearm is displayed with the intent to intimidate or threaten, it is likely to be considered brandishing.
Consequences: The legal repercussions for brandishing a firearm can be severe, often classified as a felony in many states. This can result in substantial fines, potential imprisonment, and a permanent mark on one’s criminal record. Even if classified as a misdemeanor, the consequences can still be significant, affecting one’s right to own firearms and complicating employment background checks.
Situations Involving Brandishing
Self-Defense: In some cases, brandishing may be legally justified if an individual reasonably believes they are in imminent danger. However, the display must be necessary and proportional to the threat faced.
Public Perception: Misunderstandings about brandishing can lead to unnecessary legal troubles. For example, displaying a firearm during a road rage incident or in a public place can lead to charges of disorderly conduct or public endangerment.
Conclusion
Understanding the nuances of brandishing a firearm is crucial for responsible gun ownership. It is essential to be aware of local laws and the potential consequences of displaying a firearm in a manner that could be interpreted as threatening or intimidating. Always prioritize safety and legality when handling firearms.
USLawShield
Definition of Brandishing
Brandishing is legally defined as the act of displaying a firearm in a way that is intended to intimidate, threaten, or coerce another person. This can include showing the firearm in an aggressive manner or during a confrontation. Importantly, brandishing does not require the firearm to be pointed at someone; even a mere display with the intent to intimidate can be considered brandishing.
Stop talking out of your rear as it is not illegal in all 50 states. Keep your liberal misreading point of view to yourself.
I provided US Law Shield as a quoted source in response to your pitiful posts, and you call it “liberal misreading point of view…” And then, “According to an article I just read on gun digest…” BS and “…I know for a fact that all 50 states do not make that illegal.” And more BS.
There are 3 possible explanations for posters like you that pop up every now and again. One, you have the mind 3rd grader that is all emotions and no logic, this is the most likely explanation and will never admit when you are wrong or caught lying. The next most likely is you are a left-wing shill, who tries to discredit 2A community by calling for “all of your rights are forfeited” and other statements that will hurt the 2A community reputation while satisfying some twisted dupers delight game playing. Or 3, you are a deep state agent provocateur that tries to set people up with foolish public statements bring charges against, very unlikely given the timing and your genuine lack of intelligence. Anyone who trusts someone like you has learned nothing from the Ray Epps fraud.
I say you did NOT “just read on gun digest…” that said anything about any state allowing someone to brandish a gun. Prove me wrong, provide the details that you just read with a date and a quote. It should be easy to do, if you are telling the truth. Make it even easier for you, find one documented state policy that will allow anything that fits the definition of “brandishing” or supports your BS.
It’s as simple as bringing back the death penalty. Too many cowards in this country to make that happen though. When you take away someone’s right to life, then all of your rights are forfeited.
i say toss em in a wood chipper on slow then others will think twice about what they are going to do!
Do we shoot them in the knees first and then the wood chipper or just straight into the chipper lol?
prep is optional.
“When you take away someone’s right to life, then all of your rights are forfeited.”
Not really sure about that one.
Realizing there are a few extenuating circumstances out there but for the most part… Yeah, I’m pretty sure!
Hey democrats??? You need to protect these gang thugs ! Newsome?? AOC?? News media?? Where are you ??
and yet the democrats will complain and fight to keep these voters here and free