“I Realized They Were Present”: Colorado Councilwoman Who Disclosed Aurora Takeover Responds to TdA Removal

Concerns Over Gang Activity in Aurora, Colorado

A city councillor in Aurora, Colorado, expressed feelings of sadness on Tuesday despite the positive outcomes of cracking down on the criminal activities of the Tren DeLagua (TDA) gang from Venezuela.

U.S. Attorneys have announced charges against 30 individuals affiliated with this gang following a comprehensive investigation that started after videos surfaced showing questionable activities in an apartment complex in Aurora. City councillor Daniel Julinski shared his thoughts with Bill Melgin on the “American Newsroom” show, highlighting that some, like Colorado Democratic Representative Jason Crow, prioritize political interests over public safety.

“You know, vindication keeps coming, but it’s just sad,” Julinski said. “People are making political decisions that affect real lives. What we’re seeing in Colorado is that deception led to tragedy. These firearms were accessible—they patrolled those properties.”

Julinski noted his attempts to seek assistance from state Democrats, recounting a troubling experience where a gang member threatened a pregnant woman. “I reached out to every Democrat in the state for support,” he explained. “The state governor even called me regarding a video where this gang was involved in disturbing activities.”

Despite concerns, Democratic Governor Jared Polis dismissed claims of a gang takeover in Aurora, stating that such reports were merely the product of Julinski’s “imagination.” Nevertheless, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reported seizing nearly 70 firearms linked to gang activities during their investigation.

In a separate discussion about the unfolding situation, Melgin asked Julinski about comments made by JD Vance regarding Aurora’s challenges. “I was glad to hear JD speak out,” Julinski remarked. “Initially, I thought it was just a few apartment complexes involved, but it was far more significant than that.”

“This is an ongoing issue, not isolated,” he added. “I’ve encountered some of these individuals, and it’s shocking—it really makes you think about how this can happen here.”

In response to rising concerns over gang-related violence and illegal immigration, President Donald Trump issued executive orders in January 2025, labeling TDA, along with MS-13 and various Mexican drug cartels, as foreign terrorist organizations.