The notorious Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua (TdA), is reportedly making a comeback in Tennessee, engaging in human trafficking activities, according to state law enforcement officials. Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) Director David Rausch revealed this alarming development during an interview on Senator Marsha Blackburn's podcast, "Unmuted with Marsha."
Rausch stated that recent intelligence indicates TdA's renewed presence in the state, focusing on human trafficking. This follows the apprehension of a TdA fugitive with a violent criminal history in Tennessee. TdA, originating in a Venezuelan prison, has spread its influence across South America and into the United States, often exploiting the influx of Venezuelan migrants.
The gang's criminal activities have been reported in several U.S. states, including Georgia, Illinois, Texas, Colorado, and New York. Rausch explained that TBI agents first encountered TdA in Tennessee in 2022, leading to arrests in 2023. Victims subsequently provided information about the gang's operations within Tennessee and nationally. After a brief absence, the gang has seemingly returned to the state.
TdA's modus operandi involves smuggling Venezuelan women into the U.S., some of whom exploit the asylum system by claiming to be fleeing the Venezuelan regime. Rausch confirmed that two major operations have targeted TdA members in Nashville, though he emphasized that their presence isn't as extensive as in other states like Colorado. While some communities have expressed concern about TdA taking over residential complexes, Rausch clarified that Tennessee hasn't reached that level of infiltration yet, but remains vigilant.
Typically, TdA begins with human trafficking before branching out into organized retail crime, theft, and drug trafficking, eventually escalating to violence against rival cartels. Rausch stressed the importance of stopping the gang's activities in their early stages. Senator Blackburn discussed potential solutions, including her legislation promoting collaboration between local law enforcement and federal authorities in cases involving criminal illegal immigrants. She advocated for the deportation of individuals committing crimes while residing in the country illegally.
Rausch acknowledged the challenges of repatriating migrants to countries that refuse to accept them, raising questions about the appropriate course of action for such individuals. This discussion coincides with anticipated increased deportation efforts by the incoming Trump administration, which aims to dismantle illegal migrant criminal networks operating within the United States.
The TBI director's warning underscores the persistent threat posed by transnational criminal organizations like TdA, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and effective law enforcement strategies to combat their activities and protect vulnerable populations.
