Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz and Representative Chip Roy, both Republicans from Texas, have reached out to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas seeking clarification on the increasing presence of the Tren de Aragua gang in Texas and across the United States. In a letter addressed to Secretary Mayorkas, they expressed concerns about crimes allegedly committed by affiliates of this Venezuelan gang.

The lawmakers stated, "Alleged TdA affiliates have committed heinous crimes against Americans." They highlighted a case involving two Venezuelan illegal aliens charged with raping and murdering 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in Houston. These individuals were reportedly released after unlawfully entering Texas earlier this year and are believed to be connected to TdA.

Cruz and Roy further noted an incident on October 4, 2024, where three Venezuelan illegal aliens were arrested in Northwest Dallas for their alleged role in a robbery. They also pointed out that TdA has been involved in sex trafficking operations within the U.S., forcing women into prostitution across eight states to settle smuggling debts.

The letter criticized the Biden-Harris administration's immigration policies, stating, "The massive increase in crime committed by Venezuelan illegal aliens is a direct result of this administration’s purposeful policies." Since January 2021, nearly 750,000 Venezuelans have reportedly crossed the southern border.

Operation Aurora was mentioned as a recent law enforcement effort targeting TdA members who had taken over an apartment complex in San Antonio. The operation resulted in 19 arrests, including four confirmed TdA members. The task force included officials from various agencies such as SAPD and HSI.

The letter calls for answers regarding the infiltration of transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) under current policies: "Our law enforcement community and the Texans they serve deserve answers on the scope of infiltration of TCOs under this administration."

Cruz and Roy have requested detailed information from DHS on several points related to Venezuelans released into the U.S., including their whereabouts and any criminal activities they may be involved in. They are seeking responses by October 31, 2024.