CBZ Management, which operates several apartment complexes in Aurora, Colorado, has confirmed that Venezuelan gangs have taken control of their properties, forcing staff and tenants to flee. According to CBZ, the violence began after the gangs arrived, bringing crime and fear into the community.
The company said that while they initially had success improving the properties after taking over in 2019, everything changed when gangs moved in. One CBZ employee was brutally beaten after refusing to accept a bribe, and threats continued against other staff members.
CBZ sought help from local law enforcement and discovered that the notorious Tren de Aragua gang from Venezuela was active on their properties. Despite this confirmation, CBZ claims that little assistance has come from local or federal authorities, leaving them vulnerable to the gang’s control.
Tenants have reported illegal squatters living in vacated apartments, while legitimate residents have been forced out due to the violence. CBZ says they’ve appealed to the government for help, even suggesting that the National Guard be called in, but have received no meaningful response.
Councilwoman Dani Jurinsky took steps to help one longtime tenant, gathering evidence of the gang’s presence. CBZ has criticized the media for downplaying the crisis, insisting that the gang control is being ignored by local leaders.
