Two individuals suspected of being members of the violent Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang, who were residing in New York City migrant shelters, were apprehended during a drug and firearms raid in early February. However, according to police, court records, and a report by the New York Post, the initial felony charges against them have been downgraded, potentially leading to dismissal.
Jose Tamaronis-Caldera, 27, and Richard Garcia, 33, were arrested on February 5th during a raid at V&R Auto and Collision in Woodside, Queens. Police seized a Glock handgun, two imitation pistols, and a substantial amount of narcotics. The New York Post identified both men as alleged members of the Venezuelan TdA gang, a group reportedly involved in criminal activities across the country. The NYPD could not confirm their gang affiliation.
The auto shop's owner, Rafael Nieves, 54, was also arrested during the raid. While all three initially faced felony charges, court documents indicate that the charges against Tamaronis-Caldera and Garcia were reduced to misdemeanors for possessing an air pistol and an imitation firearm. Prosecutors have stated that these charges will be dropped after August 5th if the individuals remain law-abiding, as part of an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal (ACD).
Nieves' charges were also downgraded to criminal possession of a firearm and an imitation handgun, along with possession of a controlled substance. The Queens DA's office explained that these charges are not eligible for bail because the firearm was unloaded, and the drugs, identified as cocaine and oxycodone pills, were found in an office area.
Police confirmed that Tamaronis-Caldera and Nieves resided at the Crowne Plaza JFK Airport hotel, which has been converted into a migrant shelter. Garcia's address was listed as the Roosevelt Hotel in Manhattan, another facility serving as a migrant shelter. Federal immigration sources revealed to the Post that both Tamaronis-Caldera and Garcia illegally crossed the U.S. border in 2023 but were subsequently released.
A law enforcement official expressed concern over the reduced charges, emphasizing the seriousness of the alleged gang affiliation and involvement in criminal enterprises. The official questioned the decision to release individuals suspected of being part of a violent gang known for drug, gun, and human trafficking.
This incident comes amidst heightened concerns about migrant-related crime and the strain on resources caused by the influx of border-crossers. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently reported the arrest of a suspected TdA ringleader in the Bronx who was allegedly attempting to purchase grenades.
