Living in Texas I have never felt unsafe, sure there is crime that takes place across the country, but I know we have some amazing law enforcement officers keeping us safe. While I try to make sure I don’t put myself in dangerous situations, the thought of gangs in Texas never even crosses my mind. But there are details about one gang in Texas that is getting lots of attention from law enforcement in the Lone Star State.  

The details came from the Texas Tribune regarding Tren de Aragua, it’s a gang out of Venezuela that started in Prison and has expended into Central America and the United States. There are known gang members currently in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, and Wisconsin.  

What Crimes Does This Gang Commit 

It’s the worst of the worst, we are talking about crimes such as human smuggling, kidnapping, extortion, and drug trafficking.  

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What is Texas Doing to Fight Back 

Recently the Governor of Texas Greg Abbott was able to sign a proclamation that declares the gang to be a terrorist organization. He then directed law enforcement to pursue the gang wherever they are known to be operating in Texas. There isn’t currently a database to track Tren da Aragua members but it’s in the works.  

3,000 Arrests Since 2021 

More than 3,000 undocumented immigrants from Venezuela have been arrested for crimes in Texas and more than 200 more are wanted.  

Learning these details should serve as a reminder to stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Let’s hope law enforcement can solve this issue quickly and these crimes stop.  

Dangerous Texas Gangs And Their Rivals

The rise of gang culture in Texas has been a steady one

The more prevalent gangs are, the more likely the average citizen is to cross paths with affiliated members. As the population of Texas has increased in size and diversity, so have the gangs of the Lone Star state.

If you're not mixed up in organized crime shenanigans, then you're probably safe. But as the old adage goes, the more you know the better prepared you are.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Clark

List of Gangs That Operate in Texas

Here is a look at some of the most common gang or criminal organizations that are known to be in the state of Texas.

Gallery Credit: Billy Jenkins