Colorado DA says Venezuelan gangs far from ‘fake’ problem: ‘Giant issue’

A Colorado district attorney is sounding the alarm on the issue of Venezuelan gangs infiltrating the state, arguing that those who dismiss the problem are taking an “ignorance-is-bliss approach to the law.” George Brauchler, the 23rd Judicial District Attorney, spoke out against the denial of the existence of Venezuelan gangs in Colorado, emphasizing that the issue is real and growing.

Brauchler highlighted the extreme positions taken by some individuals, from those who claimed that Venezuelan gangs had taken over the city to others who denied the existence of Venezuelans altogether. The truth, according to Brauchler, is that Venezuelan gangs have indeed taken control of several apartment complexes in the state, making it a significant and escalating issue that cannot be ignored.

The spotlight on Colorado’s sanctuary laws, which limit local cooperation with federal immigration authorities, has further ignited the debate on the presence of Venezuelan gangs in the state. Reports of the violent immigrant gang Tren de Aragua establishing its headquarters in Aurora have raised concerns about public safety and the impact of sanctuary policies.

During a recent House Oversight Committee hearing, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston faced scrutiny over the city’s lack of cooperation with federal authorities. Brauchler criticized Johnston’s responses as attempts to deflect attention from the core issue of whether cities and states should impede federal law enforcement efforts.

Despite the clear answer that cities and states should not obstruct federal law enforcement, Brauchler noted that Colorado’s Democratic-controlled government has doubled down on sanctuary policies. He pointed out laws that make courthouses sanctuaries for illegal immigrants and proposed legislation that would extend protections to immigrants traveling to and from court.

Brauchler expressed his commitment to challenging these policies in order to prioritize the safety of Colorado residents. He urged illegal immigrants to either legalize their status or behave lawfully, warning that violating the law would not result in protection or leniency.

As the debate over sanctuary policies and the presence of Venezuelan gangs continues in Colorado, it is clear that the issue is complex and requires thoughtful consideration of public safety and legal enforcement. George Brauchler’s advocacy for upholding the law and addressing the growing threat of immigrant gangs underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure the well-being of communities in the state.