The Tren de Aragua gang and its associates have been causing havoc in New York City, with a total of 517 arrests citywide this year. The NYPD has identified 41 gang members from Venezuela who have been responsible for a significant portion of these arrests, with a focus on areas like Midtown Manhattan. These gang members, along with their affiliates, have been involved in crimes ranging from robbery to assault.
In addition to the main Tren de Aragua gang, there is also a youth offshoot known as “Diablos de la 42,” which includes members as young as 11 years old. The reach of the gang extends beyond just these identified members, with many more individuals believed to be involved in criminal activities alongside Tren de Aragua.
Some of the most notorious gang members include Bernardo Raul Castro Mata, who is facing attempted murder charges for shooting two NYPD officers, and Kelvin Servita Arocha and Wilson Juarez, who were involved in a violent incident in Times Square. The gang has been involved in various crimes, including armed robbery and car theft, with a focus on Midtown Manhattan.
The NYPD is working to identify and apprehend more individuals associated with the Tren de Aragua gang to address the ongoing criminal activities. The gang’s involvement in drug sales, particularly a lethal fentanyl mix called Tussi, as well as sex trafficking, is a major concern for law enforcement.
The state’s lenient treatment of younger criminal defendants, as well as recent criminal justice reforms, have made it challenging for law enforcement to effectively address the activities of the Tren de Aragua gang. The gang’s presence in the city, coupled with the involvement of youth members, poses a significant threat to public safety and requires a coordinated effort to combat.
Law enforcement officials are working diligently to address the criminal activities of the Tren de Aragua gang and its associates, with a focus on disrupting their operations and ensuring the safety of New York City residents and visitors. The ongoing efforts to identify and apprehend gang members will be crucial in curbing the influence of the Tren de Aragua gang and preventing further criminal activities in the city.
