Regional Gang Unit

Main Phone:
(775) 334-3852

The Reno Police Department, Sparks Police Department, Washoe County School District, and the Washoe County Sheriff's Office established a single multi-jurisdictional gang unit which is not bound by jurisdiction limits. The officers from each agency have been deputized by the Sheriff to investigate cases anywhere in Washoe County. This ability minimizes the time lag, which is so critical in gang suppression cases.

The Regional Gang Unit officers take a proactive approach in an effort to reduce the appeal of gang membership with students. They volunteer to give talks at schools, both private and public, providing education to students on the dangers of gang activities. In addition, they also assist other detective units in gang-related investigations, up to and including homicide. They have been successful in solving several homicide cases.

The Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) provides federal funds to the local multi-jurisdictional gang task force. These funds enhance local agencies' budgets toward efforts to suppress gang activity.