Survivor Star Brandon Hantz Faces Legal Troubles
Brandon Hantz, a two-time contestant on the reality TV show “Survivor,” was arrested on February 19, 2025, facing charges of arson and conspiracy to commit racketeering. These charges are part of a broader indictment involving 14 members and associates of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang, stemming from a violent turf war with the rival gang B*EAST in the Houston area that began in 2019. If convicted, Hantz could face up to 20 years in prison for each charge.
Hantz, known by the nicknames “Loco” and “Gun Drop,” gained notoriety during his appearances on “Survivor: South Pacific” in 2011 and “Survivor: Caramoan” in 2012. His time on the show was marked by controversial behavior, including sabotaging his tribe’s resources and engaging in confrontations.
The indictment alleges that the Bandidos’ national leadership issued a “smash on site” order, directing members to assault or murder B*EAST members. This conflict has led to multiple violent incidents, including shootings and arson, endangering public safety.