Graffiti Enforcement Team Investigations Result in Arrests, Conviction, and More Than $80,000 in Damages

The Reno Police Department's Graffiti Enforcement Team (GET), assigned to the Regional Gang Unit, has successfully concluded two major graffiti investigations that resulted in a felony conviction, multiple arrests, and the identification of more than $80,000 in damages to the City of Reno.

GET is comprised of two Abatement Technicians, one Project Manager, and one Detective who work together to identify, document, investigate, and remove graffiti throughout Reno. Through proactive enforcement and long-term investigations, the team works to improve quality of life while holding offenders accountable. In one investigation, GET identified Jose Regla as the individual responsible for graffiti associated with the monikers "TOWSTY" and "ZEB." Investigators linked Regla to 299 graffiti incidents resulting in $44,545.02 in damages. Regla was arrested in December
2025, later pleaded guilty to felony graffiti charges, and was ordered to pay full restitution.

In a separate investigation, GET identified Joe Melendez as the individual responsible for graffiti associated with the moniker "Goatman#1." Investigators documented 244 graffiti incidents resulting in $36,351.12 in damages. On May 11, 2026, Melendez was arrested and booked on charges of Felony Graffiti, Felony Graffiti with a Criminal Gang Enhancement, and Third-Degree Arson. The case remains pending.

Combined, these investigations resulted in the documentation and removal of 543 graffiti incidents and identified more than $80,896 in damages.

These cases highlight the dedication of the Graffiti Enforcement Team and the Regional Gang Unit. Through extensive investigative work, intelligence gathering, and enforcement efforts, the team continues to identify prolific offenders, reduce graffiti throughout the city, and ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions.

The Reno Police Department remains committed to protecting Reno's neighborhoods, businesses, and public spaces through proactive enforcement and community-focused policing.

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Reno Police Department at 775-334-2121 or Secret Witness at 775-322-4900. Tips may also be submitted through the Secret Witness website.