Police in Wisconsin have arrested a man with suspected ties to a notorious Venezuelan gang for allegedly assaulting a woman and a juvenile. Alejandro Jose Coronel Zarate, 26, is facing multiple charges, including second-degree sexual assault, child abuse, and domestic battery. Authorities believe Zarate is connected to the Tren de Aragua gang, a violent transnational criminal organization involved in various criminal activities.

Zarate’s arrest followed a police response to a report of violence involving both a woman and a child in Prairie du Chien. Chief Kyle Teynor confirmed that the victims knew Zarate, stressing that this was not a random attack. According to a statement by the Prairie du Chien Police Department, both the adult and the juvenile sustained injuries during the assault.

Tren de Aragua is notorious for its involvement in crimes such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, and extortion. The gang’s influence has spread to several U.S. cities, including Chicago, Miami, and Dallas. U.S. authorities have raised concerns about the group’s growing presence, particularly as the gang has been linked to violent acts in multiple American cities.

The arrest of Zarate also revealed that he had existing warrants in Dane County for offenses including strangulation and disorderly conduct. His connection to a transnational gang has raised further alarms about the infiltration of violent criminal organizations into smaller communities across the United States.

Zarate remains in custody as Wisconsin authorities continue their investigation into his gang ties and the extent of his criminal activities.