On July 1, 2026, the Trump administration announced federal murder charges against eight alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The charges were issued by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, all eight individuals are illegal alien members of the Tren de Aragua gang linked to violent kidnappings and murders in Texas and Illinois. Government officials confirmed that each suspect entered the United States during the Biden administration’s term, specifically between December 2021 and April 2024.

The cases span two states: a kidnapping and execution-style murder in Farmers Branch, Texas, approximately two years ago, and a separate incident in Chicago, Illinois. Federal authorities described these events as part of a coordinated pattern by the gang, which has been treated as a national security threat under this administration.

The Department of Justice emphasized that these charges are allegations, not convictions. Prosecutors indicated they may consider additional charges, including terrorism, if evidence supports it. All eight individuals entered the United States under policies implemented during the Biden presidency and now face federal prosecution through coordinated efforts involving local law enforcement partners.