Gang task force makes arrests in Watsonville

Two documented Norteno gang members are in custody, arrested in Watsonville for carrying a loaded firearm and possessing ammunition and other suspected crimes , according to the Santa Cruz County Anti Crime Team Gang Task Force.

Officers arrested Daniel Paiagua, 19, and Rodrigo Garcia, 19, on the 100 block of Jefferson Street in Watsonville around 6pm on February 2nd after receiving a report of gang members smoking marijuana.

According to SCCACT, officers found two men described as documented Norteno gang members sitting in a vehicle, one on probation. Officers detained the men, described as very nervous, after they made suspicious movements.

A loaded 9mm handgun was found on the floorboard of the car, along with two walkie-talkies, according to SCCACT posting on the Santa Cruz Sheriff’s Office Facebook page. A records check found that neither of the men owned the gun.

Both suspects are residents of Watsonville.