
(DailyChive.com) – The arrest of Estefania “La Barbie” Primera in El Paso has revealed alarming details about her alleged illicit activities linked to the Tren de Aragua gang.
At a Glance
- Primera convinced immigration authorities to remove her ankle monitor.
- She allegedly operated a sex trafficking ring at Gateway Hotel.
- The Tren de Aragua gang has extended its criminal activities to at least 19 states.
- Primera is detained with a $200,000 bond.
The Arrest and Charges
Estefania “La Barbie” Primera, a Venezuelan national, was arrested in El Paso, Texas, and accused of managing a sex trafficking operation. This scheme allegedly ran out of the Gateway Hotel, a location overtaken by the Tren de Aragua gang. Primera was initially in U.S. custody wearing an ankle monitor after she crossed into the U.S. illegally. She managed to convince federal immigration authorities to remove the device by reporting that her belongings, including the monitor’s charger, had been stolen.
Primera’s activities allegedly included drugging victims with fentanyl and putting them in dangerous situations where they suffered severe harm. The alleged crimes underscore the severity of the charges against her, with reports of at least one victim being raped by multiple men while unconscious.
Lovely. She certainly looks like a great candidate for immediate release into the U.S.
Absolutely unconscionable what has been allowed to happen at our border with the mass catch & release of unvetted Venezuelans over the last several years. These stories – every single day. https://t.co/TCz6BXVNOd
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) October 8, 2024
Tren de Aragua’s Influence
The Tren de Aragua gang is reportedly responsible for spreading its criminal network across 19 U.S. states. Members of this group have taken advantage of border vulnerabilities, with some managing to conduct illegal operations domestically. The Gateway Hotel, previously used by Primera for her trafficking ring, has been shut down by authorities. Her arrest outside Sacred Heart Church, a known refuge for migrants, sheds light on the gang’s reach and operating tactics.
“La Barbie” was later arrested by cops in El Paso, Texas and accused of running a sex trafficking ring out of the Gateway Hotel, which had been taken over by TdA gangbangers, sources added.”
Primera’s use of her own children for drug smuggling operations adds another layer of complexity to her criminal activities. Her tattoos, which she often showcases on social media, have become a distinctive trait, symbolizing her gang affiliations and lifestyle choices.
NEW: HSI and San Antonio PD busted a human sex trafficking operation yesterday involving Venezuelan traffickers and victims, all in the US illegally. Per source, one trafficker is believed to connected to the Venezuelan Tren De Aragua prison gang. Disturbing details in federal… pic.twitter.com/4sfzMxh4F0
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) August 21, 2024
Legal Proceedings and Detainment
Estefania “La Barbie” Primera remains incarcerated with a substantial bond set at $200,000 as legal proceedings continue. The case serves as a reminder of the need for vigilant monitoring and effective enforcement to combat human trafficking and organized crime. The incident has raised questions regarding monitoring methods and the capability of authorities to manage individuals under legal observation effectively.
“Federal immigration authorities let alleged Venezuelan sex trafficker Estefania “La Barbie” Primera go without the tracking monitor after she whined that her belongings had been stolen, including the bracelet’s charger, sources told The Post.”
The apprehension and legal repercussions facing Primera stand as a testament to the broader implications of gang-related activities on U.S. soil. As the case unfolds, authorities remain under pressure to dismantle organized crime networks and enhance immigration enforcement measures.
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