The town council of Castle Rock, near Denver, unanimously voted to explore legal action against the city for welcoming over 42,000 immigrants since December 2022. Councilmember Max Brooks introduced the motion, arguing that Denver’s immigration policies are negatively affecting surrounding suburbs, including Castle Rock. Other nearby towns, like Aurora and Parker, are also considering joining the lawsuit.
Local officials claim that dangerous gang members, such as those from the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang, have infiltrated suburban areas, taking control of apartment complexes. Aurora City Council Member Danielle Jurinsky highlighted the growing threat, citing instances where gang members have driven out residents and seized apartments for migrant families.
Denver has offered immigrants extensive benefits, including paid housing and transportation, spending an estimated $90 million on services for new arrivals. Brooks emphasized that Castle Rock’s legal action is aimed at stopping Denver’s policies, not seeking financial compensation, in order to protect surrounding communities.