A Northern Nevada motorcycle club raised more than $4,000 for a brother and sister allegedly starved and held captive in the bathroom for years by their family.
Righteous Ones Motorcycle Club member Thomas "Scarecrow" Fletcher, organizer of Saturday's fundraiser at T's Tavern, said on Monday he had deposited $4,178 into the Second Chance Fund for the siblings.
The children, a 16-year-old girl and her 11-year-old brother, were found Jan. 19, weighing 41 pounds and 31 pounds, respectively. The two are recovering at Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center, where they are listed in stable condition.
Their mother, Regina Rios, 33; grandmother, Esther Rios, 56; and stepfather Tomas Granados, 33, are being tried on two counts each of felony child abuse, child neglect and false imprisonment.
"This was so profitable," said Fletcher, who manned the microphone and gave away hundreds of raffle prizes donated by area businesses. "We hardly had any expenses, like maybe $100, so everything went to the kids."
The Second Chance Fund was set up by the Carson City Sheriff's Protective Association and has taken in more than $20,000 for the children's educational needs.
Deputy Dan Ochenschlager said on Monday he had collected a $1,000 check from The Timbers, where patrons raised money by passing a hat at the bar.
On Feb. 15, Mulligan's Food, Fun & Spirits on Highway 50 East will host a fundraiser for the children from 6-8 p.m. All of the restaurant's proceeds will be donated to the children.
"We just felt like we needed to do something to help these kids," said owner Nate Lance. "This story hits very close to home, and we want to contribute in any way that we can."
In addition to the profit donations, Mulligan's will hold a raffle of prizes donated by local businesses. Children are welcome to attend.
"Nevadans have a way of coming together during a crisis," Lance said. "We hope to get a good turnout and have some fun, while helping give the kids a new start in life."
The Rioses and Granados are expected in court Feb. 24 for a preliminary hearing. Each is being held on $100,000 bail.
-- Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.
If you go
What: Fundraiser and raffle drawings for the Second
Chance Fund
When: 6-8 p.m. Feb. 15
Where: Mulligan's Food, Fun & Spirits, 2300 Highway 50 E.
Information: Call 841-5664