Gang members arrested as Tren de Aragua resurges in Tennessee

In Tennessee, recent law enforcement operations have revealed a concerning resurgence of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, leading to multiple arrests. On November 19, 2024, Luis Alejandro Ruiz-Godoy, a gang member with outstanding INTERPOL warrants, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and transported for deportation. This arrest coincided with increased vigilance from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), who announced on November 22 that four individuals were taken into custody during a sex trafficking sting in Hamilton County, revealing the gang's involvement in serious criminal activities. In addition to Ruiz-Godoy, the TBI confirmed that one of the arrested individuals, Adelvis Rodriguez-Carmona, is a known member of Tren de Aragua. Rodriguez-Carmona faces multiple charges, including patronizing prostitution, drug-related offenses, and unlawful possession of weapons. The involvement of these gang members highlights Tren de Aragua’s expansion beyond human trafficking, which includes organized retail theft and violent battles in the drug trade. TBI officials have noted that the gang has been active in major cities across Tennessee, including Nashville and Memphis. The TBI and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) recognize the challenges in monitoring and combating gang activities, especially when suspects lack immigration detainers. The complexity of the situation is exacerbated by the gang's ability to infiltrate various criminal enterprises. A recent report from the Department of Homeland Security indicated that over 100 migrants identified with possible ties to Tren de Aragua were recommended for inclusion on an FBI watchlist, amidst concerns about the organization’s capacity for violence and criminality. As the situation evolves, law enforcement agencies underscore the urgency of ongoing investigations to dismantle the gang’s operations and prevent further criminal activities. The combined efforts of TBI and ICE are part of a broader strategy to combat the rise of organized crime connected to a foreign gang that poses significant threats to public safety across the United States. Authorities are determined to address the multifaceted dimensions of the criminal network while also highlighting the broader implications for immigration and border security.