Around 5:00 p.m. on September 11, Gilroy Police arrested four adults and four juveniles on gang related charges. Girloy's Anti-Crime Team arrested Robert Navarro, 21, at 9033 Church St. on a $100,000 warrant for assault with a deadly weapon and on an additional warrant for being under the influence. It is alleged that Navarro physically attacked a man near Safeway on the 900 block of First Street. Witnesses say the victim fell to the ground in front of his wife and two-year old daughter. No word if the injuries are fatal. Police arrested three more men, allegedly from the same local gang: Dominic Casillas, Louie Vallez and Alexander Amezcua. Their charges range from oral copulation of a minor, domestic violence and false imprisonment. Details are not forthcoming.
Police also arrested four juveniles for various crimes, including probation violations, possession of a machete, escaping from a juvenile detention facility and possession of a concealed weapon.
It is alleged that all eight men and boys are members of the Norteno street gang and the Gilroy police say they have put a dent in local criminal gang activity. However, the police have not indicated whether these men are validated gang members. Being Latino and committing a crime does not equal membership in a criminal street gang. Of course, here in San Jose, just living on one side of town automatically makes one a member of a gang. And, wearing a badge automatically makes one a "gang expert." Or so it too often seems.
If you have been charged with a gang-related crime, or any crime you need legal representation. Call the Law Offices of Erik Steven Johnson for a free consultation at (408) 246-3004. Know Your Rights
