Central Louisiana News

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and U.S. Representative Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27) have urged President Joe Biden to classify the notorious Tren de Aragua as a Transnational Criminal Organization. The group, originating in Venezuelan prisons, has expanded its criminal activities across the hemisphere, involving murders, drug-trafficking, kidnappings, and more.

In a joint letter, the lawmakers emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Tren de Aragua is an invading criminal army from a prison in Venezuela that has spread their brutality and chaos to U.S. cities and small towns. If left unchecked, they will unleash an unprecedented reign of terror, mirroring the devastation it has already inflicted in communities throughout Central and South America, most prominently in Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru."

The letter, also signed by several other senators and representatives, highlighted the need for immediate action, calling on President Biden to designate Tren de Aragua as a Transnational Criminal Organization. The document underscored the severe impact of the group's operations on peace, stability, and national security, both domestically and internationally.

The legislators stressed the gravity of the situation, pointing out the inadequacy of current law enforcement readiness to combat the profound threat posed by Tren de Aragua. They warned that failure to address the issue promptly could lead to increased violence and criminality within the United States.

The letter outlined specific instances of heinous crimes committed by the group, including the rapes of children and the murders of law enforcement officers and civilians. By seeking the TCO designation for Tren de Aragua, the lawmakers aim to convey a strong message of intolerance towards the organization's reign of terror and a unified commitment to safeguarding communities from transnational organized crime.

The call to action concludes with a resounding plea for swift measures to address the Tren de Aragua threat before further harm is inflicted on innocent individuals and communities.