Aurora Cracks Down On Migrant Gang Violence With Apartment Closure

The City of Aurora is taking aggressive action against rising gang violence by ordering the closure of The Edge at Lowry apartment complex, a property overrun by the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The move comes after a surge in violent crime that has endangered the community.

City Judge Shawn Day approved an emergency order to shut down the complex, declaring it an “immediate threat to public safety.” This decision followed a formal petition from Aurora officials targeting the complex’s owner, Five Dallas Partners, LLC. However, the closure is expected to take several weeks to fully implement.

Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain highlighted the severity of the issue, pointing to the hundreds of service calls related to violent incidents at the complex in 2024 alone. He stressed that despite police intervention, the crime at the property persisted, fueled by poor management and gang influence.

The Tren de Aragua gang has been directly linked to a brutal home invasion in December where nine gang members were arrested. The suspects attacked and kidnapped a couple in their home, leaving them with serious injuries. The gang also stole jewelry during the violent incident, underscoring the growing threat posed by migrant criminal organizations.

Out of the 19 people initially arrested in connection with the attack, three were released after questioning. Sixteen remain in ICE custody as investigations continue, with additional suspects still under review. This ongoing investigation reveals the deep entrenchment of gang activity within the complex.

To address the needs of displaced residents, Aurora officials are partnering with nonprofit organizations and property management professionals to support legal tenants. Jessica Prosser, the city’s Director of Housing and Community Services, stated that efforts will focus on family assistance and relocating lawful residents. Police will maintain a strong presence at the complex to prevent further violence during the transition.