
A Colorado judge has approved an emergency order to shut down The Edge at Lowry apartment complex in Aurora, citing extreme criminal activity linked to the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The decision comes after months of escalating violence that has turned the complex into a dangerous hub for gang operations.
Aurora City Judge Shawn Day ruled that the complex posed an “immediate threat to public safety.” The emergency closure targets the property owner, Five Dallas Partners, LLC., for failing to address the ongoing criminal activity. However, city officials estimate the full closure won’t take effect until mid-February to allow time for tenant relocation.
Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain backed the city’s petition with evidence of rampant crime, calling the complex a hotbed of violent activity. “The Edge at Lowry Apartments is an epicenter for unmitigated violent crimes and property crimes perpetuated by a criminal element that has exerted control and fear over others residing at this apartment complex,” Chamberlain stated.
The notorious Tren de Aragua gang has been at the center of this crime wave. Nine suspected members were arrested in December after a brutal home invasion, kidnapping and robbery at the complex. Victims were beaten, stabbed and bound during the attack, leaving them seriously injured. The suspects, all migrants, include Andres Alexander Liendo-Padilla, 26, and Javier Alexander Alvarado Parada, 24.
A total of 19 suspects were initially taken into custody. While three were released after questioning, 16 remain in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody as investigations continue. Seven of those individuals are still under investigation and have not been formally charged.
City officials are coordinating with nonprofit organizations and a third-party management firm to assist legal tenants. Jessica Prosser, Director of Housing and Community Services, assured that the city is focused on helping families. “They’ll be going door to door to understand who’s living there and what their situation is,” Prosser said.
Meanwhile, police will maintain a strong presence at the complex to ensure safety during the transition. The city also plans to crack down on code violations and remove unauthorized occupants.