Blue Springs, Missouri, January 19, 2026
News Summary
Graham S. Gattis, a member of the Los Valerosos Motorcycle Gang, has pleaded guilty to armed assault and firearm possession during a violent crime. The incident occurred in Blue Springs, Missouri, where Gattis, along with others, pursued and confronted a member of a rival motorcycle club, resulting in serious injuries to the victim. Gattis faces a minimum sentence of five years and up to life in prison. This case highlights ongoing concerns about gang-related violence in the region.
Blue Springs, Missouri – Member of Los Valerosos Motorcycle Gang Pleads Guilty to Armed Assault
Graham S. Gattis, also known as “Dro,” a 41-year-old from East Ridge, Tennessee, has pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering and one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. The plea was made before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays, marking a significant development in the case.
The incident that led to Gattis’ guilty plea occurred on September 17, 2022, in Blue Springs, Missouri. Gattis is a member of the Los Valerosos Motorcycle Gang, which serves as a support club for the Pagan’s Motorcycle Gang. On the day of the assault, Gattis, along with other members of Pagan’s and Los Valerosos, pursued a member of the rival Bandidos Motorcycle Club off U.S. Highway 40.
During the confrontation, both motorcycle clubs were armed with firearms and, at least one individual carried an axe handle. Once the rival gang member was forced off the road, Gattis and his accomplices confronted him on the roadside. The victim suffered numerous gunshot wounds; he was shot seven times, with injuries affecting various parts of his body including his knee, thigh, forearm, biceps, buttocks, and the back of his leg. Gattis himself was injured, sustaining gunshot wounds to both legs during the altercation.
Under federal statutes, Gattis faces a minimum sentence of five years and up to life in federal prison without the possibility of parole. The maximum statutory sentence is determined by Congress. The specifics of Gattis’ sentencing will be established based on advisory sentencing guidelines as well as other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will follow after a presentence investigation conducted by the United States Probation Office.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. The investigation involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, Independence Police Department, Blue Springs Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Kansas City Police Department.
Background on Motorcycle Gangs
Motorcycle gangs like the Los Valerosos and the Pagan’s Motorcycle Gang are often characterized by their membership and their alliances with other gangs. The Los Valerosos act as a support club for the Pagan’s Motorcycle Gang, which is known for its violent reputation and involvement in drug trafficking, illegal weapons, and other criminal activities. The rivalry between motorcycle clubs can lead to violent encounters, as seen in the recent incident involving Gattis. Law enforcement agencies have increasingly focused on dismantling these gangs to prevent violence and maintain public safety.
Implications of the Plea
The plea deal serves as a key point in addressing gang-related violence in Missouri and potentially across the nation. Legal experts suggest that stricter enforcement of laws governing gang activities is needed, as violent clashes between rival gangs pose a threat to community safety. The outcome of Gattis’ sentencing will not only determine his fate but may also set a precedent for future cases involving similar gang-related crimes.
FAQ
Who is Graham S. Gattis?
Graham S. Gattis, also known as “Dro,” is a 41-year-old member of the Los Valerosos Motorcycle Gang from East Ridge, Tennessee.
What charges did Gattis plead guilty to?
Gattis pleaded guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering and one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on September 17, 2022, in Blue Springs, Missouri.
What happened during the incident?
Gattis and other members of the Los Valerosos and Pagan’s Motorcycle Gang chased a lone member of the rival Bandidos Motorcycle Club, forced him off the road, and confronted him, resulting in the victim being shot seven times.
What injuries did the victim sustain?
The victim sustained gunshot wounds to his knee, thigh, forearm, biceps, buttocks, and the back of his leg.
What are the potential consequences of Gattis’ plea?
Gattis faces a minimum sentence of five years and up to life in federal prison without the possibility of parole, with sentencing to be determined following a presentence investigation.
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Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
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