Black and White photo of San Jose Hells Angels Motorcycle Club
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Showing posts with label Motorcycle Club. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motorcycle Club. Show all posts
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Alleged Mongols MC Member Charged with Murder
San Bernardino County, California, USA (April 16, 2025) - A alleged member of the Mongols Motorcycle Club was charged Tuesday with murdering a member of the Vagos Motorcycle Club in what federal prosecutors say is an escalating conflict between the two Motorcycle Clubs.
Julian Pulido allegedly shot to death Vicente Sandoval on March 4th at the Firewater Bar in Ontario, according to a complaint unsealed Tuesday and San Bernardino County coroner’s records. A second alleged Mongols MC member, Clifford Lavoy, is accused of choking Sandoval before he was killed. Lavoy pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges of assault in aid of racketeering and is being jailed without bond.
Sandoval’s killing was the latest flame up in a three-year conflict between the Mongols and the Vagos that, according to court records, included a shooting at a Hooters restaurant, a brawl at a Harley-Davidson store in Marina del Rey and a homicide allegedly committed by a paraplegic Vagos MC member who rode a three-wheeled motorcycle.
The officer wrote in the complaint that Mongols leaders maintain an “arsenal” of assault rifles, handguns, shotguns, knives and bulletproof vests in their downtown Los Angeles headquarters. The Mongols allegedly kept the cache of weapons to use against rivals, including the Hells Angels, Outlaws, Sons of Silence and Vagos.
Prosecutors trace the Mongols’ conflict with the Vagos to December 19, 2021, when the latter club held a memorial for a dead member at a Hooters in Riverside. Some Mongols showed up and a fight broke out, the officer wrote. Shooting erupted from both sides. By the time Riverside police arrived, everyone had fled — but blood on the ground indicated someone had been wounded, the complaint says.
Julian Pulido allegedly shot to death Vicente Sandoval on March 4th at the Firewater Bar in Ontario, according to a complaint unsealed Tuesday and San Bernardino County coroner’s records. A second alleged Mongols MC member, Clifford Lavoy, is accused of choking Sandoval before he was killed. Lavoy pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges of assault in aid of racketeering and is being jailed without bond.
Sandoval’s killing was the latest flame up in a three-year conflict between the Mongols and the Vagos that, according to court records, included a shooting at a Hooters restaurant, a brawl at a Harley-Davidson store in Marina del Rey and a homicide allegedly committed by a paraplegic Vagos MC member who rode a three-wheeled motorcycle.
The officer wrote in the complaint that Mongols leaders maintain an “arsenal” of assault rifles, handguns, shotguns, knives and bulletproof vests in their downtown Los Angeles headquarters. The Mongols allegedly kept the cache of weapons to use against rivals, including the Hells Angels, Outlaws, Sons of Silence and Vagos.
Prosecutors trace the Mongols’ conflict with the Vagos to December 19, 2021, when the latter club held a memorial for a dead member at a Hooters in Riverside. Some Mongols showed up and a fight broke out, the officer wrote. Shooting erupted from both sides. By the time Riverside police arrived, everyone had fled — but blood on the ground indicated someone had been wounded, the complaint says.
Monday, April 14, 2025
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Outlaws Motorcycle Club Member Sentenced
Naples, Maine, USA (April 10, 2025) - A judge in a Cumberland County court sentenced a Portland tattoo shop owner to 15 years, with all but 5 suspended, for last summer's fatal shooting of Susan McHugh. Aaron Karp will spend 5 years in state prison with 4 years probation after agreeing to plead guilty to a lesser manslaughter charge.
Karp originally faced an intentional or knowing murder charge. According to the judge's decision Thursday morning, if Karp misbehaves, breaks a no contact order or violates his probation he will serve the full 15 years.
Last July, 48-year-old Karp shot and killed 54-year-old McHugh during what police and prosecutors say was a brawl and shootout involving rival motorcycle clubs. The violence broke out near Morrill's Corner in Portland at 1155 Forest Ave., across the street from Almost Famous Tattoos & Piercings, which Karp owns. His defense had argued in previous hearings that Karp was firing in self defense.
Eighteen gunshots can be heard in surveillance video near the shooting, and people can be seen scurrying for cover. Three others were shot and injured that day. Karp, who turned himself in to police on August 2, is one of seven defendants connected to this case.
The other six defendants — Caleb Pelkey, Kaleb Cidre, James Moody, Nathan Walsh, Kristofer Haken and Jason Kennan — face elevated aggravated assault charges and will all be tried together. A judge agreed to a joinder request in March after attorneys argued that holding six separate trials over many months would lead to "lots of logistical issues."
Karp originally faced an intentional or knowing murder charge. According to the judge's decision Thursday morning, if Karp misbehaves, breaks a no contact order or violates his probation he will serve the full 15 years.
Last July, 48-year-old Karp shot and killed 54-year-old McHugh during what police and prosecutors say was a brawl and shootout involving rival motorcycle clubs. The violence broke out near Morrill's Corner in Portland at 1155 Forest Ave., across the street from Almost Famous Tattoos & Piercings, which Karp owns. His defense had argued in previous hearings that Karp was firing in self defense.
RELATED | Outlaws MC member charged in deadly shooting
Eighteen gunshots can be heard in surveillance video near the shooting, and people can be seen scurrying for cover. Three others were shot and injured that day. Karp, who turned himself in to police on August 2, is one of seven defendants connected to this case.
The other six defendants — Caleb Pelkey, Kaleb Cidre, James Moody, Nathan Walsh, Kristofer Haken and Jason Kennan — face elevated aggravated assault charges and will all be tried together. A judge agreed to a joinder request in March after attorneys argued that holding six separate trials over many months would lead to "lots of logistical issues."
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Hells Angels Motorcycle Club Prospect Arrested
Kelowna, BC, Canada (April 9, 2025) - A one-time prospect of the Kelowna Hells Angels Motorcycle Club was arrested earlier this month on an outstanding assault warrant out of Ontario. In a press release Wednesday morning, the BC RCMP said 36-year-old Colin Bayley was arrested by the Kelowna RCMP on April 1. Bayley was wanted on an Ontario warrant for an alleged assault and he was returned to Ontario on April 5. The Kelowna RCMP collaborated with the BC RCMP Fugitive Return Program in finding Bayley.
While the RCMP did not provide details about the allegations against Bayley, the arrest was made in partnership with the Niagara Police Service Human Trafficking Unit and the Ontario Provincial Human Trafficking Prosecution Team. “The BC Fugitive Return Program appreciates the consideration and efforts of all the police and partner agencies involved to coordinate and apprehend this offender to face his charges,” said Staff Sgt. Kris Clark of the BC RCMP. “His arrest and return were seamless and great work by all agencies involved."
Bayley was previously sentenced in Kelowna to nine months of jail for an aggravated assault inside the old Doc Willoughby's Pub in May of 2019. During his sentencing, surveillance footage from inside the downtown Kelowna bar showed Bayley repeatedly punching a man at a table, even after the man was clearly unconscious. He then dragged the man outside the front door of the pub and left him on the sidewalk, before walking back into the bar. "It was like you were just throwing a piece of meat onto the street,” said Justice Gary Weatherill after viewing the footage.
While Bayley and the victim had not met prior to that night, Bayley's lawyer said the altercation began after the victim had said something about Bayley's infant daughter. Bayley had been wearing a distinctive black vest with a red “British Columbia” patch on it, which Crown prosecutor Erin Miller said identified Bayley as a prospective member of the Hells Angels.
As part of the police investigation into the assault, officers raided the former Kelowna Hells Angels clubhouse, which has now been demolished. Miller said Bayley's affiliation with the Hells Angels influenced some witnesses' willingness to cooperate with the prosecution. The status of Bayley's affiliation with the Hells Angels was not mentioned during his sentencing back in 2021.
SOURCE: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
While the RCMP did not provide details about the allegations against Bayley, the arrest was made in partnership with the Niagara Police Service Human Trafficking Unit and the Ontario Provincial Human Trafficking Prosecution Team. “The BC Fugitive Return Program appreciates the consideration and efforts of all the police and partner agencies involved to coordinate and apprehend this offender to face his charges,” said Staff Sgt. Kris Clark of the BC RCMP. “His arrest and return were seamless and great work by all agencies involved."
RELATED | Hells Angels MC Clubhouses Seized by Court
Bayley was previously sentenced in Kelowna to nine months of jail for an aggravated assault inside the old Doc Willoughby's Pub in May of 2019. During his sentencing, surveillance footage from inside the downtown Kelowna bar showed Bayley repeatedly punching a man at a table, even after the man was clearly unconscious. He then dragged the man outside the front door of the pub and left him on the sidewalk, before walking back into the bar. "It was like you were just throwing a piece of meat onto the street,” said Justice Gary Weatherill after viewing the footage.
While Bayley and the victim had not met prior to that night, Bayley's lawyer said the altercation began after the victim had said something about Bayley's infant daughter. Bayley had been wearing a distinctive black vest with a red “British Columbia” patch on it, which Crown prosecutor Erin Miller said identified Bayley as a prospective member of the Hells Angels.
As part of the police investigation into the assault, officers raided the former Kelowna Hells Angels clubhouse, which has now been demolished. Miller said Bayley's affiliation with the Hells Angels influenced some witnesses' willingness to cooperate with the prosecution. The status of Bayley's affiliation with the Hells Angels was not mentioned during his sentencing back in 2021.
SOURCE: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Biker caught on video in highway drive-by shooting
Tampa, Florida, USA (April 8, 2025) - Troopers are searching for a motorcyclist who fired several shots at a vehicle on westbound I-4 early Sunday morning. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 34-year-old St. Petersburg man was traveling on I-4 in Tampa around 2:28 a.m. when he spotted several motorcyclists driving erratically with another vehicle west on I-275. 
When the man began filming the motorcyclists with his phone, one of the motorcyclists rode up next to his car and discharged several rounds from a handgun, troopers said. While several rounds struck the man’s Honda CR-V, he was not injured.
The suspected shooter is described as a white man with a medium build. He was wearing a jacket with the “Outlaws MC” logo, referring to the Outlaws Motorcycle Club.
When the man began filming the motorcyclists with his phone, one of the motorcyclists rode up next to his car and discharged several rounds from a handgun, troopers said. While several rounds struck the man’s Honda CR-V, he was not injured.
The suspected shooter is described as a white man with a medium build. He was wearing a jacket with the “Outlaws MC” logo, referring to the Outlaws Motorcycle Club.
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Former Hells Angels MC clubhouse listed for sale
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (January 21, 2025) - Public Safety Minister Garry Begg says the province has listed the former clubhouse of the Vancouver Hells Angels Motorcycle Club for sale. The former clubhouse, located at 3598 East Georgia Street, was assessed at $1.58 million as of July 1, 2024, which is about $66,000 from when the property was first forfeited to the province.
This marks the first of three seized Hells Angels MC properties to be made available for commercial sale and "a further step in undercutting organized crime in British Columbia," Begg said in a news release Monday, January 20, 2025.
The house sits on a corner lot that is 10 metres (33 feet) by 33 metres (109 feet) long. The listing says the two-story house has about 2200 square feet of floor space with five bedrooms and three baths. The property was seized by the government, along with two other clubhouses in Nanaimo and Kelowna, after a 16-year court battle over whether the sites had been used to commit crimes.
The province finally won in 2023. He said the sale “when completed, will include a right of entry, a legal tool authorizing the Civil Forfeiture Office to take the property back if it is ever acquired and used by organized crime in the future.”
The former clubhouse is listed at REALTOR.CO 3598 East Georgia
This marks the first of three seized Hells Angels MC properties to be made available for commercial sale and "a further step in undercutting organized crime in British Columbia," Begg said in a news release Monday, January 20, 2025.
Related | Hells Angels MC Clubhouses Seized by Court
The house sits on a corner lot that is 10 metres (33 feet) by 33 metres (109 feet) long. The listing says the two-story house has about 2200 square feet of floor space with five bedrooms and three baths. The property was seized by the government, along with two other clubhouses in Nanaimo and Kelowna, after a 16-year court battle over whether the sites had been used to commit crimes.
The province finally won in 2023. He said the sale “when completed, will include a right of entry, a legal tool authorizing the Civil Forfeiture Office to take the property back if it is ever acquired and used by organized crime in the future.”
The former clubhouse is listed at REALTOR.CO 3598 East Georgia
Saturday, January 11, 2025
Police Raid Hells Angels MC Clubhouse
Trois-Rivières, Quebec (January 11, 2025) - A Hells Angels MC clubhouse was the target of a major police operation in Hérouxville, Mauricie. Around 90 police officers were mobilized Friday evening for a raid targeting violent crimes and drug trafficking. The searches are related to various events in recent weeks and months, such as shootings on Rang St-Pierre in Hérouxville.
Police found 16 people at the scene, including an armed 67-year-old man who was arrested. He was held in custody pending his scheduled appearance at the Shawinigan courthouse on Saturday. Police searched three vehicles and the entire property, consisting mainly of two buildings. They allegedly seized a rifle, firearm ammunition, methamphetamine tablets, clothing and jewelry with the HAMC branding along with Hells Angels patched jackets.
Those apprehended at the scene are all men aged between 27 and 71. They are “members in good standing” of the Trois-Rivières Hells Angels, as well as “prospects” and members of Hells Angels support clubs. A spokesperson for the Sûreté du Québec (SQ), Éloïse Cossette, stressed that the Mauricie region is not immune from violence and drug trafficking.
“The goal of the investigation is to put an end to the activities of people who engage in acts of violence,” she said. Friday's searches are believed to be linked to several violent episodes during which gunshots and bangs were heard on Rang Saint-Pierre, in Hérouxville, in December 2023, September 2024 and at the beginning of 2025.
The operation involved officers from the Mauricie Regional Joint Task Force (ER), the National Organized Crime Enforcement Team (ENRCO), the Organized Crime Intervention Team (OCIT), intelligence officers, crime scene technicians, firearms specialists, dog handlers and the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) Emergency Response Team (ERT).
Police found 16 people at the scene, including an armed 67-year-old man who was arrested. He was held in custody pending his scheduled appearance at the Shawinigan courthouse on Saturday. Police searched three vehicles and the entire property, consisting mainly of two buildings. They allegedly seized a rifle, firearm ammunition, methamphetamine tablets, clothing and jewelry with the HAMC branding along with Hells Angels patched jackets.
Those apprehended at the scene are all men aged between 27 and 71. They are “members in good standing” of the Trois-Rivières Hells Angels, as well as “prospects” and members of Hells Angels support clubs. A spokesperson for the Sûreté du Québec (SQ), Éloïse Cossette, stressed that the Mauricie region is not immune from violence and drug trafficking.
“The goal of the investigation is to put an end to the activities of people who engage in acts of violence,” she said. Friday's searches are believed to be linked to several violent episodes during which gunshots and bangs were heard on Rang Saint-Pierre, in Hérouxville, in December 2023, September 2024 and at the beginning of 2025.
The operation involved officers from the Mauricie Regional Joint Task Force (ER), the National Organized Crime Enforcement Team (ENRCO), the Organized Crime Intervention Team (OCIT), intelligence officers, crime scene technicians, firearms specialists, dog handlers and the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) Emergency Response Team (ERT).
Thursday, January 9, 2025
Couple of lawsuits settled in Pagan's and cops brawl
Pittsburgh, PA, USA (January 9, 2025) - The City of Pittsburgh will pay over $170,000 to settle two of four lawsuits from a brawl at Kopy’s bar six years ago between members of the Pagan's Motorcycle Club and several drunk, undercover police officers.
The lawsuits include allegations of malicious prosecution and assault and battery, as well as civil rights claims based on the city’s alcohol policy that allowed undercover officers to drink on the job.
The incident began around 12:30 a.m. on October 12, 2018. Earlier that night, four undercover Pittsburgh police officers investigating drug activity entered the Kopy's bar, identified themselves as construction workers and began drinking. Four members of the Pagan's MC, arrived about 11:30 p.m. Within an hour, a brawl had erupted, and the four Pagan's MC members were arrested.
The four Pagan's MC members were charged with aggravated assault, conspiracy and riot. The undercover officers, David Honick, Brian Burgunder, Brian Martin and David Lincoln, were supposedly investigating a drug complaint at Kopy's bar the night of the brawl.
According to city’s lawyer's, the officers knew the Pagan's MC members to carry weapons, and they believed that their undercover status had been compromised by the four bikers. According to an affidavit by Stephen Kopy, the now-deceased owner of the bar, the officers told him that night they had issues with the Pagan's MC.
“I was then asked by one of the undercover officers whether I was ‘siding’ with the bikers,” Kopy wrote in the affidavit. “I told them that I was not ‘siding’ with the bikers. I just did not agree with the undercover officers that the bikers were trying to cause trouble.” As the Pagan's MC members got up to leave, he continued, the officers stopped them and spoke with them.
But his lawsuit said that the officers, who were visibly intoxicated, impeded his exit from the bar, with David Honick repeatedly showing him his loaded handgun in the front band of his pants, not revealing that he or any of the others was a police officer. About a month later, the criminal charges were dropped by the Allegheny County District Attorney’s. The officers were ultimately suspended for five days without pay and reassigned.
Screenshot of video taken from Kopy's bar on October 12, 2018
The lawsuits include allegations of malicious prosecution and assault and battery, as well as civil rights claims based on the city’s alcohol policy that allowed undercover officers to drink on the job.
The incident began around 12:30 a.m. on October 12, 2018. Earlier that night, four undercover Pittsburgh police officers investigating drug activity entered the Kopy's bar, identified themselves as construction workers and began drinking. Four members of the Pagan's MC, arrived about 11:30 p.m. Within an hour, a brawl had erupted, and the four Pagan's MC members were arrested.
Related | Pagans MC Lawsuit Against Drunk Cops Goes to Trial
The four Pagan's MC members were charged with aggravated assault, conspiracy and riot. The undercover officers, David Honick, Brian Burgunder, Brian Martin and David Lincoln, were supposedly investigating a drug complaint at Kopy's bar the night of the brawl.
According to city’s lawyer's, the officers knew the Pagan's MC members to carry weapons, and they believed that their undercover status had been compromised by the four bikers. According to an affidavit by Stephen Kopy, the now-deceased owner of the bar, the officers told him that night they had issues with the Pagan's MC.
“I was then asked by one of the undercover officers whether I was ‘siding’ with the bikers,” Kopy wrote in the affidavit. “I told them that I was not ‘siding’ with the bikers. I just did not agree with the undercover officers that the bikers were trying to cause trouble.” As the Pagan's MC members got up to leave, he continued, the officers stopped them and spoke with them.
Related | Bar Owner Sues City And Cops
But his lawsuit said that the officers, who were visibly intoxicated, impeded his exit from the bar, with David Honick repeatedly showing him his loaded handgun in the front band of his pants, not revealing that he or any of the others was a police officer. About a month later, the criminal charges were dropped by the Allegheny County District Attorney’s. The officers were ultimately suspended for five days without pay and reassigned.
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Ex Hells Angels MC freed from prison
Montreal, Quebec, Canada (January 7, 2025) - In a decision made on Friday, the Parole Board of Canada reinstated Jacques Pelletier’s full parole. The 69-year-old former Hells Angel MC member is serving the life sentence he received in 1986 for his role in the first-degree murders of fellow club members in Lennoxville, carried out inside what was then a bunker used by the club’s Sherbrooke chapter. The slaughter, which came to be known as the Lennoxville Purge.
The ambush was planned by leaders of the Hells Angels MC based in Quebec who felt the club’s Laval chapter had become undisciplined when it came to drug trafficking and that this caused problems with other criminal organizations, including the West End Gang, who supplied them with drugs like cocaine.
On March 24, 1985, five Laval Hells Angels MC members were shot to death after they were summoned to a Hells Angels clubhouse in Lennoxville, just outside Sherbrooke. Several Hells Angels MC members were present that day and played a role in the slaughter, but only four, including Pelletier, were convicted of first-degree murder and received life sentences.
Pelletier was granted full parole in 2013, but the release was suspended five times since for different reasons. For example, in October 2017 he was returned to a penitentiary after police noticed his motorcycle parked outside a strip club frequented by known criminals.
Most recently, his parole was suspended following a collision on October 4. During Pelletier’s hearing on Friday, the parole board members who heard his case were presented with different versions of what actually occurred, including Pelletier’s, and determined they did not have enough information to keep him inside the federal penitentiary where he spent the past three months.
According to a written summary of the decision made last week, Pelletier’s parole was suspended following a collision with another vehicle on October 4 and after he refused to submit to a breathalyzer test.
The ambush was planned by leaders of the Hells Angels MC based in Quebec who felt the club’s Laval chapter had become undisciplined when it came to drug trafficking and that this caused problems with other criminal organizations, including the West End Gang, who supplied them with drugs like cocaine.
On March 24, 1985, five Laval Hells Angels MC members were shot to death after they were summoned to a Hells Angels clubhouse in Lennoxville, just outside Sherbrooke. Several Hells Angels MC members were present that day and played a role in the slaughter, but only four, including Pelletier, were convicted of first-degree murder and received life sentences.
Pelletier was granted full parole in 2013, but the release was suspended five times since for different reasons. For example, in October 2017 he was returned to a penitentiary after police noticed his motorcycle parked outside a strip club frequented by known criminals.
An undated photo of the Laval chapter of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club
Most recently, his parole was suspended following a collision on October 4. During Pelletier’s hearing on Friday, the parole board members who heard his case were presented with different versions of what actually occurred, including Pelletier’s, and determined they did not have enough information to keep him inside the federal penitentiary where he spent the past three months.
According to a written summary of the decision made last week, Pelletier’s parole was suspended following a collision with another vehicle on October 4 and after he refused to submit to a breathalyzer test.
Thursday, January 2, 2025
Outlaws MC club member pleads guilty
Buffalo, New York, USA (January 2, 2025) - An Outlaws MC club member who pleaded guilty to a gun charge has already been in jail for a portion of what federal guidelines suggest for a sentence. Scott Barnes, whom prosecutors have described as a national enforcer for the Outlaws, has been in jail since December 2023.
Federal agents on December 7, 2023, executed a search warrant at the 400 block of Northumberland Avenue, Buffalo, New York. Scott had been living in the upper portion of the building for several weeks before law enforcement searched it.
During the search, agents recovered a .40 caliber Glock handgun loaded with 11 rounds of ammunition on an end table near his sleeping area with other personal items. The firearm was reported stolen in 2013 by its owner.
Scott was among nine defendants named in the Pharaoh’s witness retaliation indictment. But his charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and also possessing a stolen Glock .40-caliber pistol were not related to the alleged retaliation against Crystal Quinn, 37, a former exotic dancer who died of a fentanyl overdose in 2023.
Among the other defendants in the retaliation case are four people accused of participating in a witness-tampering and retaliation conspiracy targeting Quinn. At the time of her death, Quinn had entered into a formal cooperation agreement with federal prosecutors to testify in Gerace’s bribery, sex- and drug-trafficking trial.
Federal agents on December 7, 2023, executed a search warrant at the 400 block of Northumberland Avenue, Buffalo, New York. Scott had been living in the upper portion of the building for several weeks before law enforcement searched it.
During the search, agents recovered a .40 caliber Glock handgun loaded with 11 rounds of ammunition on an end table near his sleeping area with other personal items. The firearm was reported stolen in 2013 by its owner.
Scott was among nine defendants named in the Pharaoh’s witness retaliation indictment. But his charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and also possessing a stolen Glock .40-caliber pistol were not related to the alleged retaliation against Crystal Quinn, 37, a former exotic dancer who died of a fentanyl overdose in 2023.
Among the other defendants in the retaliation case are four people accused of participating in a witness-tampering and retaliation conspiracy targeting Quinn. At the time of her death, Quinn had entered into a formal cooperation agreement with federal prosecutors to testify in Gerace’s bribery, sex- and drug-trafficking trial.
Thursday, October 17, 2024
Feds charge HAMC and RDMC members in North Carolina
Raleigh, North Carolina, USA (October 17, 2024) - A federal indictment in the Eastern District of North Carolina has charged 16 motorcycle club members for engaging in violent criminal activity around Raleigh and Fayetteville. Several members of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club and the Red Devils Motorcycle Club were at the center of a criminal investigation known as Operation Broken Halo that began in January 2023.
The indictment alleges that all 16 defendants are members or associates of the HAMC, a violent outlaw motorcycle group alleged to use violence, threats, and intimidation to carry out its perceived mission and enforce its rules. During a Wednesday press conference, US Attorney Michael Easley outlined the charges and said that while the vast majority of motorcycle clubs are composed of law-abiding citizens, a fraction partake in illegal activity.
Five defendants charged with one count of Murder in Aid of Racketeering face a mandatory life sentence upon conviction. Other defendants face anywhere from three to 30 years in prison. A full list of the defendants can be found on the Justice Department’s press release link below. Officials warned that criminal enterprises engaging in violence “better keep on riding” through North Carolina or the Department of Justice will be “riding you in pursuit of cases.”
SOURCE: Press Release
The indictment alleges that all 16 defendants are members or associates of the HAMC, a violent outlaw motorcycle group alleged to use violence, threats, and intimidation to carry out its perceived mission and enforce its rules. During a Wednesday press conference, US Attorney Michael Easley outlined the charges and said that while the vast majority of motorcycle clubs are composed of law-abiding citizens, a fraction partake in illegal activity.
Five defendants charged with one count of Murder in Aid of Racketeering face a mandatory life sentence upon conviction. Other defendants face anywhere from three to 30 years in prison. A full list of the defendants can be found on the Justice Department’s press release link below. Officials warned that criminal enterprises engaging in violence “better keep on riding” through North Carolina or the Department of Justice will be “riding you in pursuit of cases.”
SOURCE: Press Release
Monday, September 23, 2024
Several Mongols Motorcycle Club Members Arrested
Palm Springs, California, USA (September 23, 2024) - Palm Springs police made around 23 arrests this weekend as over 1,000 members of the Mongols Motorcycle Club visited the city.
The motorcycle club visited Palm Springs for a gathering of its various chapters, for their National Run which it has done several times since 2013. As a result, there was the usual increase in law enforcement presence, including members of California Highway Patrol, monitoring the club.
Even though no stories of mayhem or increased crime linked to the Mongols Motorcycle Club can be found locally, law enforcement was still out in force. The exact number of club members who attended is not known.
Lt. Gustavo Araiza, a police spokesperson said the Palm Springs Police Department made 23 different arrests as of Sunday afternoon. Six of the arrests were due to weapons violations, five were due to controlled substance violations, 10 were due to people having warrants, one was due to a parole violation and one was due to a post-release community supervision violation, he said.
He added that Palm Springs patrol staff are still monitoring the situation but most club members had left Palm Springs as of Sunday afternoon.
The motorcycle club visited Palm Springs for a gathering of its various chapters, for their National Run which it has done several times since 2013. As a result, there was the usual increase in law enforcement presence, including members of California Highway Patrol, monitoring the club.
Even though no stories of mayhem or increased crime linked to the Mongols Motorcycle Club can be found locally, law enforcement was still out in force. The exact number of club members who attended is not known.
Lt. Gustavo Araiza, a police spokesperson said the Palm Springs Police Department made 23 different arrests as of Sunday afternoon. Six of the arrests were due to weapons violations, five were due to controlled substance violations, 10 were due to people having warrants, one was due to a parole violation and one was due to a post-release community supervision violation, he said.
He added that Palm Springs patrol staff are still monitoring the situation but most club members had left Palm Springs as of Sunday afternoon.
SOURCE: NBC Palm Springs
Friday, September 20, 2024
Hells Angels MC and Red Devils MC members arrested
Hamilton, Ontario (September 20, 2024) - Four members of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club and one member of the Red Devils Motorcycle Club have been arrested and charged with assault causing bodily harm and robbery in connection to an incident that took place in Hamilton in July 2024.
On July 4, 2024, an assault occurred at an establishment located in Hamilton. During the assault, it's is alleged that the accused robbed the victim of personal items. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)-led Biker Enforcement Unit (BEU), in collaboration with Hamilton Police Service (HPS), began an investigation into the occurrence.
On August 21, 2024, the BEU and HPS executed search warrants at the residences of the accused. Search warrants were also executed at the Hells Angels MC clubhouse and the Red Devils MC clubhouse in Hamilton.
As a result of the search warrants, police seized four shotguns, three rifles, a shotgun barrel, ammunition, body armour and a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL). A total of 13 charges were laid against five individuals. They were released on an undertaking and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Hamilton on September 23, 2024.
SOURCE: Toronto Sun
On July 4, 2024, an assault occurred at an establishment located in Hamilton. During the assault, it's is alleged that the accused robbed the victim of personal items. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)-led Biker Enforcement Unit (BEU), in collaboration with Hamilton Police Service (HPS), began an investigation into the occurrence.
On August 21, 2024, the BEU and HPS executed search warrants at the residences of the accused. Search warrants were also executed at the Hells Angels MC clubhouse and the Red Devils MC clubhouse in Hamilton.
As a result of the search warrants, police seized four shotguns, three rifles, a shotgun barrel, ammunition, body armour and a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL). A total of 13 charges were laid against five individuals. They were released on an undertaking and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Hamilton on September 23, 2024.
SOURCE: Toronto Sun
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
Outlaws MC member charged in deadly shooting
Portland, Maine, USA (August 14, 2024) - Police have charged a Outlaws Motorcycle Club member with murder in connection with a shooting on Forest Avenue that left a Gray woman dead. Police said Aaron Karp, of Naples, turned himself in at the Portland Police station Thursday evening, and he is currently being held without bail.
Police have not released any details about the connection between Karp and the victims. A court file for Karp was not available Friday. A background check run through the Maine Bureau of Identification shows he has no criminal history in the state.
On his Facebook page, Karp describes himself as a tattoo artist at Almost Famous Tattoos & Piercings, which is next to the shooting scene, and has several pictures showing he is a member of the Outlaws motorcycle club.
Karp is charged in the murder of Susan McHugh, 54, of Gray, at about 8:45 p.m. on July 30. She was shot at the 1110 block of Forest Avenue along with a 45-year-old New Hampshire man, a 48-year-old Yarmouth man and a 51-year-old Gray man.
All three other victims have since been treated for their injuries and released from a local hospital. Police have not made any other arrests yet, but said the investigation continues. “This is just the beginning, as we will continue to work with the Office of the Maine Attorney General to build our case as we look for justice for Ms. McHugh,” Dubois said.
Police have not released any details about the connection between Karp and the victims. A court file for Karp was not available Friday. A background check run through the Maine Bureau of Identification shows he has no criminal history in the state.
On his Facebook page, Karp describes himself as a tattoo artist at Almost Famous Tattoos & Piercings, which is next to the shooting scene, and has several pictures showing he is a member of the Outlaws motorcycle club.
Karp is charged in the murder of Susan McHugh, 54, of Gray, at about 8:45 p.m. on July 30. She was shot at the 1110 block of Forest Avenue along with a 45-year-old New Hampshire man, a 48-year-old Yarmouth man and a 51-year-old Gray man.
All three other victims have since been treated for their injuries and released from a local hospital. Police have not made any other arrests yet, but said the investigation continues. “This is just the beginning, as we will continue to work with the Office of the Maine Attorney General to build our case as we look for justice for Ms. McHugh,” Dubois said.
Friday, August 9, 2024
Pagan's MC members busted in meth ring
Knoxville, Tennessee, USA (August 9, 2024) - State law enforcement agencies carried out a months long methamphetamine investigation that has resulted in 15 indictments, including two people in the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club, according to a Thursday release from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.
According to the release, special agents in TBI’s Drug Investigation Division and agents with the 5th Judicial District Drug Task Force in December began investigating the sale of large quantities of methamphetamine in Knox County and surrounding areas. Along the way, agents allegedly developed information that Richard Baker, of Knoxville, a member of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club, was leading the distribution efforts.
The release said another club member, Brian Fox, of Dandridge, and numerous other individuals assisted Baker in distributing illegal narcotics throughout East Tennessee. Baker was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine and three counts of sale/delivery of 26 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Fox was charged with intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine. Also indicted on charges of intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine were several others.
The TBI release said Knox County Sheriff’s Office, 9th Judicial District Drug Task Force, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are assisting with the investigation, which remains ongoing.
The charges and allegations referenced are merely accusations of criminal conduct and not evidence. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.
According to the release, special agents in TBI’s Drug Investigation Division and agents with the 5th Judicial District Drug Task Force in December began investigating the sale of large quantities of methamphetamine in Knox County and surrounding areas. Along the way, agents allegedly developed information that Richard Baker, of Knoxville, a member of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club, was leading the distribution efforts.
The release said another club member, Brian Fox, of Dandridge, and numerous other individuals assisted Baker in distributing illegal narcotics throughout East Tennessee. Baker was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine and three counts of sale/delivery of 26 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Fox was charged with intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine. Also indicted on charges of intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine were several others.
The TBI release said Knox County Sheriff’s Office, 9th Judicial District Drug Task Force, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are assisting with the investigation, which remains ongoing.
The charges and allegations referenced are merely accusations of criminal conduct and not evidence. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.
Monday, July 29, 2024
Armond Edward Bletcher
Armond Bletcher was born on November 14, 1942, in Alameda County, California, USA. His father, Edward E. Bletcher, was a decorated United States Navy veteran who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Edward's military service deeply influenced Armond's upbringing, instilling in him values of resilience and strength.
Standing somewhere between 6 foot 3 and 6 feet 8 inches tall and tipping the scales around 350 pounds, he faced relentless bullying due to his size, which had a lasting impact on his life. Determined to change his circumstances, Armond dedicated himself to weightlifting and reportedly used horse steroids to build his physique. This transformation from a bullied victim to a formidable force allowed him to confront his past tormentors and establish himself as a powerful figure.
His reputation only grew as he became involved with the mafia and worked as a bodyguard for the legendary singer Frank Sinatra. These connections solidified his standing as a man not to be trifled with and added to his mystique. As a friend of the Fresno Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, and a feature favorite with the staff at Easyriders magazine, Armond was literally a giant among men and a controversial figure to this day.
Despite his tough exterior, family was always important to Armond. The values instilled in him by his father played a crucial role in shaping his character and the path he chose. Edward E. Bletcher's final resting place at Belmont Memorial Park in Fresno, California, serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of family on Armond's life.
His resilience and capacity to endure physical harm without flinching earned him immense respect from his peers. This unyielding toughness, combined with his steadfast loyalty, made him an influential force within the organization.
He tragically met his match at the wrong end of a .357 when a baseball bat beating couldn’t diffuse his anger, just pissed him off more. He was dead at 33 yrs old. Armond had allegedly gone after his cousins to “mess them up” when they refused to put him on their shop payroll, which he desperately needed to show an honest source of income while being investigated by the Feds for numerous illegal activities. Having his personal lifestyle and exploits plastered on the pages of Easyriders magazine probably didn’t help matters much.
“Hell’s Angels love to fistfight. There’s never a shortage of drunks or fools willing to take us on, and a lot of times we’ll take on each other. Armond Bletcher stood 6″8″ and weighed 350 lbs. He was so strong he could pick up a couple motorcycles and put them on the back of a pickup truck. In the early 70's Armond could bench 705 lbs., but he had to arch his back to do it. He was never in competition, but he took steroids and was unbelievably big.” ~Ralph “Sonny” Barger
Standing somewhere between 6 foot 3 and 6 feet 8 inches tall and tipping the scales around 350 pounds, he faced relentless bullying due to his size, which had a lasting impact on his life. Determined to change his circumstances, Armond dedicated himself to weightlifting and reportedly used horse steroids to build his physique. This transformation from a bullied victim to a formidable force allowed him to confront his past tormentors and establish himself as a powerful figure.
Armond Bletcher’s prized motorcycle and car, ca. 1963
His reputation only grew as he became involved with the mafia and worked as a bodyguard for the legendary singer Frank Sinatra. These connections solidified his standing as a man not to be trifled with and added to his mystique. As a friend of the Fresno Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, and a feature favorite with the staff at Easyriders magazine, Armond was literally a giant among men and a controversial figure to this day.
1976 Easyriders magazine
Despite his tough exterior, family was always important to Armond. The values instilled in him by his father played a crucial role in shaping his character and the path he chose. Edward E. Bletcher's final resting place at Belmont Memorial Park in Fresno, California, serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of family on Armond's life.
Armond flexing his bicep among his friends in an undated photo
His resilience and capacity to endure physical harm without flinching earned him immense respect from his peers. This unyielding toughness, combined with his steadfast loyalty, made him an influential force within the organization.
1976 Easyriders magazine
He tragically met his match at the wrong end of a .357 when a baseball bat beating couldn’t diffuse his anger, just pissed him off more. He was dead at 33 yrs old. Armond had allegedly gone after his cousins to “mess them up” when they refused to put him on their shop payroll, which he desperately needed to show an honest source of income while being investigated by the Feds for numerous illegal activities. Having his personal lifestyle and exploits plastered on the pages of Easyriders magazine probably didn’t help matters much.
Armond's gravesite at Belmont Memorial Park
Fresno, Fresno County, California, USA
“Hell’s Angels love to fistfight. There’s never a shortage of drunks or fools willing to take us on, and a lot of times we’ll take on each other. Armond Bletcher stood 6″8″ and weighed 350 lbs. He was so strong he could pick up a couple motorcycles and put them on the back of a pickup truck. In the early 70's Armond could bench 705 lbs., but he had to arch his back to do it. He was never in competition, but he took steroids and was unbelievably big.” ~Ralph “Sonny” Barger
Thursday, July 25, 2024
Snitch scared about HAMC member release from prison
Toronto, Ontario Canada (July 25, 2024) - A police snitch who helped put Dean Kelsie in prison says last week's decision to release the alleged former Hells Angels Motorcycle Club hitman on day parole is a mistake. Paul Derry, snitch, says he has known Dean since he was six years old, said this about his former friend. "He will kill again and that's not me being scared of anybody or any vendetta against Dean," Paul said in an interview with a local news source.
At a hearing on July 18, the Parole Board of Canada decided to release Dean, 50, on day parole for a period of six months. Dean is serving a life sentence for murder. He allegedly shot and killed Sean Simmons in the lobby of an apartment building in north-end Dartmouth, N.S., in October 2000. Three other men were also charged in the killing, which was allegedly ordered by a member of the Hells Angels MC who was upset that Simmons had an affair with his wife.
Neil Smith and Wayne James were sentenced to life in prison for their part in the murder. Steven Gareau had charges against him stayed in 2018. Dean was originally convicted of first-degree murder. After the decision was overturned on appeal and a new trial ordered, the Supreme Court of Canada refused a bid by Nova Scotia prosecutors to reinstate the first-degree murder conviction, instead substituting a conviction for the lesser charge of second-degree murder.
He was first granted day parole in 2021, and his release was reviewed every six months. But his release was suspended in January of this year and he was sent back to prison after he threatened a co-worker at the job he'd landed outside of prison.
Paul, snitch, after reading of Kelsie's release, said the decision could have grave consequences. "If the parole board continues to let Dean out on any kind of release, he is eventually going to kill somebody," Paul said. "He has not changed a bit. That's very apparent by everything you've watched over the last couple of years since his appeal, his last trial."
The board has imposed special conditions on Dean's release. They include that he abstain from drugs and alcohol, not associate with anyone with a criminal record, stay away from the Simmons family and take anger management training.
Paul, snitch, said life has been hard on his family. "Watching my family go through what they've gone through has been difficult," he said. "There's no end to this sentence. I mean, never mind the fact that you have to constantly think about the part you played in those things but you also have to look at what your family goes through because of what you do now, even if you've changed, it doesn't change the damage that's done and that continues to go on."
At a hearing on July 18, the Parole Board of Canada decided to release Dean, 50, on day parole for a period of six months. Dean is serving a life sentence for murder. He allegedly shot and killed Sean Simmons in the lobby of an apartment building in north-end Dartmouth, N.S., in October 2000. Three other men were also charged in the killing, which was allegedly ordered by a member of the Hells Angels MC who was upset that Simmons had an affair with his wife.
Neil Smith and Wayne James were sentenced to life in prison for their part in the murder. Steven Gareau had charges against him stayed in 2018. Dean was originally convicted of first-degree murder. After the decision was overturned on appeal and a new trial ordered, the Supreme Court of Canada refused a bid by Nova Scotia prosecutors to reinstate the first-degree murder conviction, instead substituting a conviction for the lesser charge of second-degree murder.
He was first granted day parole in 2021, and his release was reviewed every six months. But his release was suspended in January of this year and he was sent back to prison after he threatened a co-worker at the job he'd landed outside of prison.
Paul, snitch, after reading of Kelsie's release, said the decision could have grave consequences. "If the parole board continues to let Dean out on any kind of release, he is eventually going to kill somebody," Paul said. "He has not changed a bit. That's very apparent by everything you've watched over the last couple of years since his appeal, his last trial."
The board has imposed special conditions on Dean's release. They include that he abstain from drugs and alcohol, not associate with anyone with a criminal record, stay away from the Simmons family and take anger management training.
Paul, snitch, said life has been hard on his family. "Watching my family go through what they've gone through has been difficult," he said. "There's no end to this sentence. I mean, never mind the fact that you have to constantly think about the part you played in those things but you also have to look at what your family goes through because of what you do now, even if you've changed, it doesn't change the damage that's done and that continues to go on."
Bacchus MC members arrested for vehicle theft
Oakville, Ontario, Canada (July 25, 2024) - The Ontario Provincial Police Bike Enforcement Unit opened an investigation in June 2023 after receiving information that several members of the Bacchus Motorcycle Club were in possession of stolen vehicles. In November search warrants were executed in Burlington, Orangeville, Etobicoke, Hamilton, Mississauga, and Paradise, Newfoundland and Labrador as well as the Bacchus MC clubhouse in Oakville.
Police say they recovered six stolen and re-vinned vehicles, ownerships, insurance, key fobs and fraudulent VIN plates. “These vehicles are not only stolen for profit they are also used in the commission of other serious violent crimes, such as armed robberies, home invasions, serious assaults, shootings and homicides,” said Supt. Dave Costantini of the Halton Regional Police Service, which assisted the OPP in the investigation.
Police say they recovered six stolen and re-vinned vehicles, ownerships, insurance, key fobs and fraudulent VIN plates. “These vehicles are not only stolen for profit they are also used in the commission of other serious violent crimes, such as armed robberies, home invasions, serious assaults, shootings and homicides,” said Supt. Dave Costantini of the Halton Regional Police Service, which assisted the OPP in the investigation.
- Rober Janes, of Oakville has been charged with three counts of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 and two counts of fraudulent concealment.
- Chad Burtt, of Oakville has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, fraudulent concealment, and fraud over $5,000.
- Alam Miles, of Amaranth, Ont., has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
Sunday, July 21, 2024
Mask 1985 - Red's Funeral
This is one of the deleted scenes from the 1985 biker movie "Mask" showing Red's funeral.
This clip is where they bury him with his Harley.
Mask starred: Sam Elliott, Eric Stoltz, Harry Carey, Jr., Laura Dern, Dennis Burkley, and more.
This clip is where they bury him with his Harley.
Mask starred: Sam Elliott, Eric Stoltz, Harry Carey, Jr., Laura Dern, Dennis Burkley, and more.
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