Arizona Department of Public Safety State Gang Task Force Makes 11 arrests as part of Operation Catch 22

On Wednesday, February 29, 2012, the Arizona State Gang Task Force (GIITEM) executed 11 search warrants, along with 10 arrest warrants, at various locations across Mohave County to include Bullhead City, Ft. Mohave, Mohave Valley, Lake Havasu City and Laughlin, Nevada.

The arrests culminated an eight-month investigation into the resurgence of violent crimes related to the Vagos Motorcycle Gang in the Bullhead City area. There have been several incidents where Vago members and their followers have been involved in violent encounters involving patrons of local bars. The latest incident occurred December 23^rd, 2011, at Lazy Harry’s Lounge in Bullhead City. During this incident, a patron was assaulted, dragged out of the bar, and beaten by several members of the Vagos motorcycle Gang.

Shortly thereafter, GIITEM Mohave Enforcement began its investigation into the incident. This investigation coincided with another investigation into the Lake Havasu chapter of the Vagos Motorcycle gang. It’s alleged that gang members were involved in assaults, witness intimidation, drug sales, motorcycle theft, and possession of stolen property.

Suspects arrested: Ryan Welsch, 26, Lake Havasu

Shawn Patrick Bailey, 36, Bullhead City

Gabriel Nader, 25, Bullhead City

Charges: Aggravated Assault, Riot and participating in a Criminal Street Gang

Suspects arrested: Bernard Prano, 55, Lake Havasu

Peter Velliodis, 39, Laughlin, Nevada

Paul Anthony Villegas, 41, Lake Havasu

Robert Wayne Mann, 46, Bullhead City

Robert Kellar, 36, Bullhead City

Daniel McDonald, 53, Ft. Mohave

Charges: Theft of Means of Transportation, Participating in a Criminal Street Gang and

Possession of a Vehicle with a Defaced Vehicle Identification Number

Suspect Arrested: Kenneth William Gallego, 35, Ft Mohave