A Venezuelan man suspected of being part of a violent gang has been arrested in Wisconsin after allegedly assaulting a woman and a child. Alejandro Jose Coronel Zarate, 26, faces charges of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. Police believe Zarate is affiliated with the Tren de Aragua gang, a notorious transnational criminal organization.
Police in Prairie du Chien arrested Zarate after responding to reports of a violent altercation involving both an adult woman and a female juvenile. Both victims, known to Zarate, were injured during the assault. Zarate now faces a series of charges, including strangulation and disorderly conduct.
Tren de Aragua is a criminal group involved in a wide range of illegal activities, including drug and weapons trafficking, human smuggling, and extortion. The gang has been linked to criminal activities in several U.S. cities, including Chicago, Dallas, and Miami. Authorities have raised alarms about the gang’s spread into American communities and its potential to cause violence.
In addition to the charges in Prairie du Chien, Zarate had outstanding warrants in Dane County for prior crimes, adding to the seriousness of his arrest. Police are working with federal authorities to determine the extent of Zarate’s involvement with the Venezuelan gang and any other criminal activities.
Zarate remains in custody as the investigation continues, and local law enforcement has called on the community to remain vigilant.
