Texas Judge Shuts Down El Paso Hotel Linked to Violent Venezuelan Gang

A Texas judge has ordered the temporary closure of El Paso’s Gateway Hotel amid allegations of gang activity and safety violations, sparking concerns about the growing influence of a notorious Venezuelan criminal organization.

At a Glance

El Paso’s Gateway Hotel shut down due to alleged ties with Tren de Aragua gang
Hotel operated without valid occupancy certificate since 2018
693 police calls related to criminal activities at the hotel
Lawsuit seeks permanent injunction until long-term remedies implemented
Congressman pushes to designate Tren de Aragua as transnational criminal organization

Judge Orders Gateway Hotel Closure

A state judge in Texas has ordered the temporary shutdown of the Gateway Hotel in El Paso following a lawsuit filed by the El Paso County Attorney’s Office. The hotel, which has operated without a valid certificate of occupancy since 2018, is accused of being a hub for criminal activity, particularly involving the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

The lawsuit, filed on August 27, seeks a permanent injunction to halt operations until long-term remedies are implemented. This legal action comes after years of alleged violations and criminal activities at the hotel, which has become a significant concern for local law enforcement and community members.

Hotel in downtown #ElPaso ordered to close after bombshell allegations of prostitution, rampant drug use and #TrenDeAragua gang presence. Despite police activity, Gateway Hotel was allowed to operate for 6 years without proper permits, lawsuit alleges. https://t.co/tlJjkV3N0J

— Robert Holguin (@RobertKFOX14) September 10, 2024

Rampant Criminal Activity

According to court documents, the El Paso Police Department has received an alarming 693 calls related to criminal activities at the Gateway Hotel. These incidents range from drug use and prostitution to violent assaults and gang-related offenses.

During inspections, officers observed numerous violations, including an inoperative elevator and blocked fire exits. More disturbingly, surveillance footage revealed suspected gang members partying and drinking with children present, highlighting the dangerous environment fostered within the hotel.

Tren de Aragua’s Growing Influence

The Tren de Aragua gang, originating from Venezuela, has been making headlines across the United States. El Paso has become a known waypoint for gang members before they move on to other major cities like New York, Chicago, and Denver. This development has raised serious concerns about the spread of transnational criminal organizations within the country.

“Tren de Aragua is the epitome of evil,” Congressman Tony Gonzales, who represents El Paso, said.

Gonzales has been pushing to designate Tren de Aragua as a transnational criminal organization, which would provide more tools to security agencies to combat their influence. The gang’s presence in El Paso and other parts of the country underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to border security and immigration policy.

As the situation unfolds, it’s clear that the closure of the Gateway Hotel is just one step in addressing the larger issue of organized crime and its impact on American communities. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and local authorities in maintaining public safety and combating the influence of international criminal organizations.