Aurora Mayor Accuses Denver of Secretly Sending Migrants, Fueling Gang Problem

Aurora Mayor Accuses Denver of Sending Migrants to Aurora Without Notification

Aurora, Colorado, Mayor Mike Coffman has accused Denver Mayor Mike Johnston of sending migrants to Aurora without notifying local officials. Coffman claims that this has contributed to the city's problems with the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA).

In an op-ed for The Denver Gazette, Coffman called on Johnston to be transparent about his role in the situation. He alleges that two nonprofits, with the support of Denver, sent and housed migrants in Aurora without informing local authorities. Coffman believes this has led to an influx of Venezuelan migrants, including criminals, in Aurora.

Johnston's office denies directing any nonprofits to place migrants in Aurora. They also claim that no city funds were used to support rental assistance at properties managed by CBZ Management, the company that owns the apartment buildings at the center of the controversy.

Coffman, however, points to reports suggesting that Denver contracts with nonprofits allowed them to place migrants in Aurora without notifying local officials. He also cites a compliance provision in the contracts that requires nonprofits to provide information about the number and location of migrants sent to Aurora.

Coffman argues that Denver should redact the names of migrants and provide him with the information. He believes that Johnston should be transparent and tell the truth about his actions.

The situation has caused national embarrassment for Aurora, potentially harming the city's image and economic prospects. Coffman demands that Johnston be accountable and provide clarity on the matter.