OFF THE WIRE
Video - Biker gxxg birthday, police on high alert: kasa.com
Valencia County's biggest crime crackdown ever
LOS LUNAS, N.M. (KRQE) - It's a big birthday for a group many people call dangerous and state police are on high alert, watching the Bandidos biker gxxg from the ground and from the air, in a massive crime crackdown.
The Bandidos are celebrating their 40th birthday and authorities are keeping an eye on them as they plan to serve burglary, drug and DWI warrants.
Officials say it is the biggest crime crackdown ever in Valencia County.
More than 100 officers from multiple agencies are targeting criminals, patrolling the streets and zeroing in on them from above in a state police helicopter.
The crackdown coincides with the Bandidos, a notorious biker gxxg's, 40th birthday celebration in Valencia County.
Gang experts describe members of that group as violent, often leaving behind a trail of crime.
Fellow biker Annette Torrez has her own opinion.
“The Bandidos are always looked at as a criminal element a bad influence, I can tell you I’ve probably gotten more respect from members of banditos than i have from most people,” Torrez said.
Police won't say if they are specifically targeting the Bandidos.
“But we are aware and we're cognizant of that gathering of the Bandidios and we have enough personnel in the area to deal with the issues that come up,” Deputy Chief Pete Kassetas said.
They are keeping a close eye on them with the helicopter and they will keep on top of the gxxg overnight.
“We’re glad they're out there we hope they're looking out for us,” Kimberly Kinter said.
The Bandidos sent Kinter to speak on their behalf saying the group is peaceful.
Still police want everyone to know that they are watching.
”Criminals don't obey jurisdictions they go wherever they want so we have to be able to work together and go catch them,” Lt. Miller said.
State police have already handed out more than 60 tickets, made one DWI arrest and three other misdemeanor arrests.
Police say the beefed up patrols will last through Thanksgiving weekend.
http://www.kasa.com/dpps/news/crime/biker-gang-birthday-police-on-high-alert_3993695