NCJ Number
103186
Date Published
1986
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Organized motorcycle gangs pose a threat both to the total community and to law enforcement because of their broad geographic base, their penchant for violence, and the extensive criminal enterprises in which they are involved.
Abstract
Today's outlaw motorcycle gangs show little resemblance to the motorcycle clubs of several decades ago. The gangs were initially groups of restless, rebellious youths who pursued uninhibited good times and general lawlessness. Their basic structures and leaders emerged during the early years. The drug subculture that developed during the 1960's had a major impact on gang activities. Gang members became drug users at first and drug suppliers later. Accompanying this trend was a growing emphasis on major criminal moneymaking enterprises. Today the gangs are highly structured criminal entities that are analogous to traditional organized crime families. Their enterprises include trafficking in drugs and firearms, arson, bombings, contract killings, extortion, prostitution, and burglary. Their basic philosophy is the total rejection of society and its laws. The most sophisticated and notorious gangs are the Hell's Angels, the Outlaws, the Bandidos, and the Pagans. Several Federal statutes aid law enforcement efforts directed at these gangs. However, their mobility, secrecy, use of nicknames, and other characteristics make them a serious challenge to law enforcement agencies. Questions and answers for the reader.