Aurora reaches deal to sell Aspen Grove apartment amid gang issues

Aurora officials reached an agreement with the owner of the Aspen Grove apartment complex, Zev Baumgarten, to sell or lease the property amid ongoing gang issues. In exchange for dropping numerous charges against Baumgarten for property maintenance violations, the city required him to assume costs for securing the building and cleaning up the site. The agreement was finalized on August 12, just before the city evicted around 300 residents and boarded up the complex on August 13. The deteriorating conditions at Aspen Grove have been attributed to gang activity, particularly from the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, which has been linked to various criminal activities. Baumgarten's attorney had previously sought assistance from local officials regarding the gang's control over the property, but the Aurora Police Department declined to provide security due to staffing limitations. This situation reflects broader concerns about gang influence in the area. City officials have documented health and safety issues at the complex since February 2021, while the property owner claimed that the gang's presence hindered maintenance efforts. The agreement allows for the potential re-tenanting of the building, contingent upon compliance with city codes. The complexities surrounding the property highlight the challenges faced by landlords in maintaining safety and order in areas affected by gang violence. The situation at Aspen Grove is part of a larger narrative involving the influx of Venezuelan immigrants to Denver, many of whom have fled economic and political turmoil in their home country. The agreement with Aurora represents a significant step in addressing the issues at the complex, but the long-term implications for the community and property values remain uncertain.