Federal immigration officials revealed that at least two of the migrants implicated in the shocking mob attack on two NYPD officers in Times Square are members of the notorious Venezuelan street gang known as “Tren de Aragua.” Wilson Juarez, 21, and Kelvin Servita-Arocha, 19, who stand accused in the January 27 assault, are currently held without bail by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials.
ICE spokeswoman Marie Ferguson confirmed that both Juarez and Arocha, described as unlawfully present Venezuelan citizens, are detained without bond, identified as members of the Tren de Aragua transnational criminal organization. The arrests occurred inside a Bronx apartment after police executed an arrest warrant for another asylum seeker linked to the Times Square incident.
Arocha was apprehended on an ICE warrant and awaits re-evaluation of his custody status, while Juarez was taken into custody based on a deportation order issued by a judge in El Paso, Texas, a year earlier. These revelations come as Darwin Andres Gomez-Izquiel, 19, who was initially released without bail following the January 27 attack, was arrested again for alleged shoplifting in Queens, prompting his return to Rikers Island.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law, condemning lawlessness that threatens the city’s stability. The decision to detain Gomez-Izquiel and Ulises Bohorquez, 21, on significant bail amounts underscores the seriousness of the charges and the authorities’ commitment to ensuring accountability.
NYPD Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry expressed concern over the lack of regard for law enforcement exhibited by the migrant suspects, vowing to hold them accountable. With several suspects charged and additional individuals under investigation, the NYPD remains vigilant in pursuing justice for the assaulted officers.
According to court filings by the Manhattan DA’s Office, Yohenry Brito, 24, was identified as the instigator of the January 27 incident, allegedly refusing police orders to disperse the rowdy group. Brito, who was initially released on bail, was rearrested but later released after a Brooklyn priest posted bond.
The development underscores the gravity of the situation, with seven suspects now named in a Manhattan indictment. Prosecutors allege that Juarez and Arocha, among others, actively participated in the assault before being taken into custody by federal immigration authorities.
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As the investigation continues, authorities remain steadfast in their efforts to ensure justice for the assaulted officers and maintain public safety in New York City.