The Edge at Lowry Apartments in Aurora, Colorado, is set to close by mid to late February following a series of severe criminal activities. Plagued by violence, the apartment complex has become a focal point for law enforcement and city officials. The decision to shut down follows a violent kidnapping and home invasion incident that led to 19 arrests. These individuals face charges such as second-degree kidnapping, first-degree assault, and aggravated robbery.
The city of Aurora has taken legal action, filing a petition in Aurora Municipal Court to secure an emergency closure order for the remaining buildings within the complex. The city accuses property owner CBZ Management of failing to manage the premises adequately, thus endangering public safety and welfare. In response, CBZ Management has refuted the allegations and called for a trial to resolve the lawsuit.
The complex's association with the Venezuelan prison gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) has intensified concerns. The gang allegedly seized control of the apartments, coercing tenants to pay them rent. In September, authorities apprehended ten alleged TdA members, charging them with various offenses. President-elect Donald Trump referenced this situation in a presidential debate, highlighting it as an instance of gang domination.
"They're taking over buildings. They're going in violently. These are the people that (Vice President Kamala Harris) and (President Joe Biden) let into our country. And they're destroying our country. They're dangerous. They're at the highest level of criminality." – Donald Trump
Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain described the complex as "an incredibly crime-riddled complex," underscoring the severity of the situation. The city's proactive measures include closing the complex and collaborating with Arapahoe County and community partners to relocate residents from 60 affected apartment units.
"An incredibly crime-riddled complex" – Aurora police chief Todd Chamberlain
To ensure a smooth transition for residents, the city plans to employ a contracted management company to evaluate the property. This evaluation aims to identify legal tenants, remove squatters, and provide necessary resources for those displaced. Jessica Prosser, Aurora's director of housing and community services, emphasized the importance of understanding each tenant's situation.
"They'll be going door to door to understand who's living there, what their situation is" – Jessica Prosser, Aurora's director of housing and community services
Prosser also mentioned that the city is considering financial assistance based on individual family needs.
"evaluating whether financial assistance can be provided depending on that individual family" – Jessica Prosser, Aurora's director of housing and community services
The city's efforts to combat the TdA gang's influence have been ongoing for months, involving multiple arrests and strategic operations aimed at dismantling their presence in Aurora.
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