Law enforcement officials in North Dakota are raising concerns about limited federal assistance as they confront an emerging threat from international criminal organizations in their communities.
West Fargo Police Chief Pete Nielsen reports his department faces mounting challenges addressing sophisticated criminal schemes linked to the Venezuelan gang known as Tren de Aragua.
I joined @MorningsMaria on @FoxBusiness to discuss the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, strategically decoupling from China, and getting our border under control. The arrest of a suspected Tren de Aragua gang member in North Dakota is proof every state is a border… pic.twitter.com/4OkD1k3Xyo
— Senator Kevin Cramer (@SenKevinCramer) December 10, 2024
“We haven’t had a lot of federal partners knocking on our door here to assist with this crime,” Nielsen said, noting the difficulties local agencies face investigating cases spanning multiple jurisdictions.
The concerns follow the arrest of suspected gang member Henry Theis, 25, connected to an elaborate ATM theft operation that targeted banks in the region.
Police recovered substantial evidence during a November traffic stop, including stolen cash and tools allegedly used in the criminal scheme.
West Fargo, ND Police Chief Pete Nielsen told NYP that he begged the Federal Government for help after Tren de Aragua members came to his city, and they basically ignored him.
North Dakota is now the 17th state with a Tren de Aragua presence.
January 20th can’t come soon… pic.twitter.com/oYOccEvE2l
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) December 15, 2024
Immigration records indicate Theis entered the US through El Paso last year before traveling north. He faced a drunk driving charge in Texas but avoided detention.
Nielsen expressed frustration about the suspect’s previous encounters with law enforcement. “When these individuals are here illegally… they’re getting arrested for a crime. And then we release [them back] into the country,” he said.
The police chief confirmed his department tracks additional suspected gang affiliates operating in the area while working with limited resources.
Federal immigration authorities have now requested custody of Theis, currently held in Cass County detention facilities.
A suspected member of the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua was arrested in North Dakota.
Tren de Aragua now has a presence in 17 states.
I look forward to working with President Trump to secure our border and restore safety in our communities. pic.twitter.com/ctCU9LCZui
— Congressman Troy E. Nehls (@RepTroyNehls) December 10, 2024
Looking ahead, Nielsen indicated support for increased cooperation with federal agencies under the incoming administration to address both criminal and immigration violations.
The case highlights growing security challenges facing even remote American communities as international criminal groups expand operations nationwide.
