Several suspects related to gangs in the region were arrested on Tuesday night as part of an enforcement operation carried out by the Regional Gang Unit.
The investigation started after officers with the RGU saw several juveniles and young adults gathered in a parking garage downtown.
These people were seen flashing hand signs associated with the Calle Side Hill street gang while wearing clothing and face coverings commonly associated with gang activity, according to the release.
With recent gang-related violence and criminal activity happening in and around the parking garage, investigators responded to identify the people and see if criminal activity was happening.
Officers found and surveilled a car thought to be associated with the group. After seeing several violations, they pulled the car over.
As soon as the car stopped, a passenger got out and ran away through heavy traffic at the intersection of North Virginia Street and East 6th Street.
They ran to a nearby business while carrying a concealed gun, the release said.
Officers chased the suspect and took them into custody after a physical struggle.
During the arrest, officers recovered the gun, identified as a 9mm Beretta with an extended magazine.
The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Juan Barrios-Velazques, continued resisting officers and tried to hold on to the gun before being subdued and restrained.
Ultimately, in the course of the investigation, five people were arrested on a number of charges, including gang-related firearm violations, resisting a public officer with a deadly weapon, minor in possession or consumption of alcohol, possession of a controlled substance, and obstruction of a public officer.
One juvenile was also taken into custody after officers discovered he had been reported as a runaway.
During the investigation, multiple open alcohol containers were found inside the car, as well as documented gang intelligence regarding several known members and associates of the Calle Side Hill street gang.
Police released information on two of the suspects who were arrested. That information can be found below.
Juan Barrios-Velazques (20) – Carrying a Concealed Firearm to Promote, Further or Assist a Criminal Gang; Resisting, Delaying or Obstructing a Public Officer; Resisting, Delaying or Obstructing a Public Officer While Using a Firearm.
Ricardo Jimenez-Nunez (18) – Minor in consumption and Gross Misdemeanor graffiti charges.
Numerous offences related to juveniles.
Anyone with information on this investigation is asked to contact the Reno Police Department's non-emergency line at (775) 334-2677.
You can also contact Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900 or secretwitness.com.
