A suspected gang member and illegal immigrant is currently free on probation in Chicago, despite facing domestic battery charges, a prior weapons charge, and a 2022 deportation order. This case has ignited debate over Chicago's sanctuary city policies.

Pedro Colmenares, 33, a suspected member of the Tren de Aragua gang from Venezuela, entered the U.S. in September 2022. An immigration judge ordered his deportation in November 2022. However, while appealing the ruling, Colmenares remained in Chicago.

In October 2024, a weapons charge brought Colmenares back to the attention of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). DHS issued an ICE detainer, but Cook County, citing its sanctuary policy, declined to honor it, releasing Colmenares.

Earlier this week, Chicago Police questioned Colmenares regarding his potential involvement in the September 2024 shooting death of a 25-year-old Hispanic man. While police believed there was probable cause for a murder charge, the Cook County State's Attorney's Office declined to prosecute, citing insufficient evidence and uncooperative witnesses.

Colmenares also faces charges related to the kidnapping and sexual assault of his ex-girlfriend in October 2024. He allegedly forced the 27-year-old Hispanic woman into his car, threatening to shoot her. Police say he then drove her to a location on Chicago's west side, where he allegedly assaulted and sexually abused her for several days.

Colmenares appeared before a judge on March 5, 2025, in Chicago. He was ordered to surrender any weapons and avoid contact with the victim of the domestic abuse, but electronic monitoring was not mandated.