Reports from Denver, Colorado, indicate that Venezuelan gang members are allegedly extorting homeless people living in public encampments. A Reddit user claimed on the r/homeless subreddit that these gangs have taken control of their encampment and are demanding “rent” under the guise of “protection.”
The post by the Reddit user revealed the fear and uncertainty within the encampment, stating, “Venezuelan gangs took over our encampment and now we have to pay them rent to stay here.” Reactions to the post have been varied, with some advising the user to comply for safety and others urging them to leave.
This incident is part of a broader issue in Colorado, where concerns about armed Venezuelan gang members are growing. Recently, footage from Aurora, Colorado, showed these gangs taking over an apartment complex, leading to a violent altercation that left one person injured.
Initially, Colorado Governor Jared Polis dismissed the Aurora incident, calling it a product of “imagination,” but later addressed it on CNN, encouraging anyone with further evidence to step forward. Despite these developments, Polis remains opposed to President Donald Trump’s border wall and supports Vice President Kamala Harris’ strategies for securing the border.
The situation in Denver highlights the vulnerability of the homeless population and the broader implications of gang-related violence in Colorado.