Venezuelan Gang Member Charged with Shooting NYPD Officers, Smuggling Guns

On Wednesday, June 26th, Bernardo Raul Castro Mata, a 19-year-old Venezuelan migrant and alleged member of the Tren de Aragua gang, was arraigned in Queens Criminal Court for the shooting of two NYPD officers in East Elmhurst, Queens. The incident has drawn significant attention to the security risks posed by gang activity within city-run migrant shelters.

Mata faces two counts of attempted murder, among other charges. The charges stem from a June 3rd incident where NYPD Officers Christopher Abreu and Richard Yarusso attempted to stop Mata, who was riding a scooter against traffic. Prosecutors allege that during the ensuing chase, Mata shot Officer Yarusso in the chest at point-blank range and Officer Abreu in the leg before being apprehended. Despite Mata’s claims that the gun discharged accidentally, bodycam footage contradicts his account, showing deliberate action.

In a confession made from his hospital bed, Mata admitted to being a member of the Tren de Aragua gang. He revealed that the gang smuggles firearms into New York City shelters by concealing them in food delivery bags to bypass metal detectors. This method facilitated the smuggling of the gun used in the shooting, which he claimed was given to him by a friend working for DoorDash.

The Tren de Aragua gang is notorious for its violent activities in Venezuela, where it is common practice for gang members to shoot at police officers. This culture of violence has evidently been transported to New York City, posing severe risks to law enforcement and the community.

During his arraignment, Mata appeared in a wheelchair, with his leg bandaged from the gunshot wound inflicted by police during the incident. Judge Kenneth Holder granted the request for protective custody, recognizing the danger Mata faces after turning on his gang. The judge also ordered him to be held without bail.

The case has highlighted significant concerns regarding the security of migrant shelters and the ease with which contraband can be smuggled into these facilities. The NYPD and city officials are under pressure to address these vulnerabilities to prevent further incidents.

In a strong show of support, dozens of NYPD officers attended the arraignment. Patrick Hendry, President of the Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association, emphasized the need for strict prosecution and subsequent deportation of individuals who attack police officers. Meanwhile, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz reiterated her commitment to ensuring Mata is held accountable for his actions.