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DEA Justifies Colorado Springs Raid with Federal Drug Trafficking Investigation

TIMOTHY P. O’HARA, A MAGISTRATE JUDGE OF THE U.S. DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLORADO, ISSUED A SEARCH AND SEIZURE WARRANT

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado Staff

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The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) confirmed that the raid carried out on Sunday, April 27, at an underground club in Colorado Springs was authorized through a federal court warrant, as part of a criminal investigation into drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms. The operation, which resulted in more than 100 arrests, was backed by a “Search and Seizure Warrant” issued on April 24 by Timothy P. O’Hara, a magistrate judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado.

Although only the cover sheet of the warrant was made available, it confirms that the agents operated under the authority of an active criminal investigation, and not simply to apprehend undocumented immigrants. The raid targeted the property located at 296 S. Academy Blvd., where the club operated. According to a DEA spokesperson, the agency had been monitoring the location for months alongside other federal agencies due to suspicions of drug trafficking, prostitution, and violence.

On the night of the operation, the venue had been rented for a private party organized by individuals of Colombian origin, although authorities have not indicated that they were the specific target of the operation. During the raid, drugs and several firearms were seized. Among the drugs found were cocaine, methamphetamine, and “tusi” (pink cocaine). Authorities also reported the arrest of more than a dozen active-duty military members, who were allegedly working as private security at the club.

Judge Awaits Report Before May 8

Despite the high number of arrests, it has not yet been confirmed whether serious federal charges will be filed against all those detained. Judicial sources warn that many may simply face deportation proceedings if there is no clear evidence of major crimes. This has drawn criticism from some sectors, fearing the raid was used as a pretext to mass-detain undocumented immigrants. Judge O’Hara has ordered the DEA to submit a full inventory of the items seized and a detailed report on the execution of the warrant before May 8, 2025.

Attorney General Highlights Operation’s Impact

U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi publicly praised the operation, emphasizing that more than 100 undocumented immigrants were apprehended at the underground club, which was frequented by members of criminal organizations such as Tren de Aragua and MS-13. Bondi also reported that cocaine, methamphetamines, and pink cocaine were seized, and that two additional individuals were arrested due to outstanding warrants.