The Reno Gang

Who were the Reno Gang?

The Reno Gang was a group of deserters from the Civil War. They were conmen, thieves and train robbers, and often got away with crimes by bribing law officials.

What crimes did the Reno Gang commit?

The Reno Gang committed train robberies. Their first, in 1866, saw the gang break open a safe and steal $16,000. They carried out more robberies in 1867 and 1868. In their fourth robbery they got away with $96,000.

What happened to the Reno Gang?

John Reno was caught in 1866. Another gang member was captured during the fifth robbery and gave up the rest of the gang in return for a reduced sentence. After their arrest, they were lynched by a mob of vigilantes.