The NYPD is currently facing a rising issue of Venezuelan gang activity in New York City. The concern is particularly focused on these gangs attempting to recruit children from migrant families. These gang members have been able to blend in with the asylum seekers who have been arriving in the city since 2022.
One of the primary gangs of concern is Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang that is known to be living in the shelter system and targeting children for recruitment. The NYPD has identified 39 members of Tren de Aragua and an additional four members of a subgroup known as Little Devils of 42nd Street, which consists of much younger children. However, many of these gang members do not have any prior criminal history on record, making it difficult for law enforcement to track or identify them.
These undocumented criminals, some as young as 11 years old, have been involved in various crimes such as retail robberies and thefts committed on scooters. The incidents have included armed robberies where jewelry, watches, and cellphones are taken at gunpoint or knifepoint. The gangs have even gone as far as shooting at police officers when confronted.
Despite these criminal activities, many of these young offenders are being released back into the public due to a lack of prior criminal history on record. This has raised concerns among migrant parents who fear that their children may be targeted by these gangs. Some parents have expressed worries about their children being forced into a life of crime and manipulated by gang members.
To combat this issue, community organizations like Resources Opportunities Connections and Community are working to provide alternatives for migrant children. By offering youth programs such as a soccer club, these organizations aim to keep children off the streets and away from gang influence. These programs provide a safe space for children to have fun, build community, and stay away from violence.
However, more resources and spaces are needed to support the nearly 22,000 migrant children currently in city shelters. These children represent a significant portion of the migrant population in the city and are vulnerable to being targeted by gangs. It is crucial for community organizations, law enforcement, and government agencies to work together to address the root causes of gang recruitment and provide support for migrant families.
