A high-ranking Tren de Aragua fugitive from Venezuela has been arrested in Tennessee, thanks to international law enforcement coordination.
Luis Alejandro Ruiz Godoy, a prominent gang leader with a history of violent crimes, including human trafficking, robbery, terrorism, weapons offenses, and escape, was taken into custody on November 19 in Memphis.
INTERPOL Washington announced the successful apprehension, highlighting the immediate exchange of critical information and cooperation with international and domestic partners.
Tren de Aragua has emerged as a significant threat to the United States, infiltrating migration flows from Venezuela. INTERPOL Washington will continue to provide critical intelligence to police partners across the continent to strengthen border and national security.
Ruiz Godoy was identified as an international fugitive by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Caracas, Venezuela, and INTERPOL Washington received an urgent alert on November 7. Despite his entry into the United States prior to the notice publication, swift action by INTERPOL Washington’s Global Police Services Division ensured his location was identified.
GPS Investigative Analysts helped trace Ruiz Godoy to a location in Tennessee, leading to his joint operation arrest with INTERPOL Washington. He is currently in ICE custody.
In a statement, INTERPOL Washington Acting Director Jeffrey A. Grimming emphasized, ‘Through the immediate exchange of critical information and unparalleled cooperation with our international and domestic partners, this dangerous gang leader has been apprehended and will be held accountable for his crimes.’
Defendant: Luis Alejandro Ruiz Godoy
Criminal Charges: Human trafficking, robbery, terrorism, weapons offenses, and escape
City and State: Memphis, Tennessee
Exact Date: November 19, 2023
Sentence or Outcome: Currently in ICE custody
Key Facts
- State: Tennessee
- Category: Human Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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