Federal agents recently conducted large-scale ICE operations in Denver and Aurora, Colorado, targeting suspected members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

The raids, which took place in early February 2025, focused on multiple apartment complexes, including Cedar Run Apartments in Denver and The Edge at Lowry in Aurora.

According to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the goal was to apprehend over 100 alleged gang members suspected of crimes such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and violent offenses. However, the operation sparked widespread concern among residents and advocacy groups, with some questioning the tactics used by law enforcement.

ICE Raids and Community Reaction

The raids began in the early morning hours, with federal agents going door-to-door, questioning residents, and detaining individuals suspected of immigration violations. Witnesses described a heavy presence of armed officers, including tactical teams equipped with armored vehicles.

A resident of Cedar Run Apartments, who asked to remain anonymous, said the experience was unsettling.

“I woke up to loud knocking and saw officers everywhere. They were asking for IDs and even questioning people about their neighbors,” the resident said.

Community advocates have raised concerns about due process, arguing that some individuals may have been unfairly targeted based on their appearance or immigration status rather than concrete evidence.

Concerns Over Leaked Information

Before the raids took place, reports emerged that ICE operations had been delayed due to leaked information. According to Tom Homan, President Donald Trump’s border czar, these leaks compromised law enforcement efforts, allowing some targets to evade arrest.

“This isn’t a game. When they get a heads-up that we are coming, it’s only a matter of time before our officers are ambushed,” Homan stated.

Homan also suggested that media access to ICE operations may be restricted in the future to prevent further leaks. He emphasized the importance of operational security (Op-Sec) in preventing gang members from escaping.

Impact on Residents and Local Officials

The ICE raids have left many residents feeling uneasy, with some expressing fear that such aggressive enforcement actions could erode trust between communities and law enforcement.

Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, who had previously raised concerns about Tren de Aragua’s presence in the city, defended the operation, saying that it was necessary for public safety.

“These gangs are dangerous and are involved in serious crimes. We need to take action to protect our communities,” Coffman stated.

However, some local officials and activists have pushed back, urging ICE to provide more transparency regarding who was detained and what specific charges they face.

District Attorney Alexis King, who represents Jefferson and Gilpin counties, expressed concerns that the raids could have negative long-term effects on law enforcement relationships within the community.

“What about child sexual assault, human trafficking? All of these things this community is at risk for underreporting,” King said.

The Political Debate Over Immigration Enforcement

The raids in Aurora have reignited the political debate on immigration enforcement in Colorado. In September 2024, Mayor Coffman and City Council Member Danielle Jurinsky had warned about Tren de Aragua’s growing influence, but those concerns were initially dismissed by some officials.

Now, after the ICE raids, many are reconsidering the gang’s presence in the state and discussing the role of federal agencies in addressing violent crime. The operation has also raised questions about the effectiveness of ICE tactics and whether mass raids are the best way to combat criminal networks.

Ongoing Investigations and Next Steps

As of now, ICE has not released detailed information about how many individuals were detained or whether all of them were directly linked to Tren de Aragua. Advocacy groups are calling for more transparency and oversight, urging federal authorities to ensure that no individuals were wrongfully detained.

Meanwhile, immigration lawyers are preparing to assist those who were arrested, arguing that some detainees may have legal grounds to challenge their deportation or detention.

The situation remains fluid, with further updates expected in the coming weeks as investigations continue.