NCJ Number
196456
Journal
Journal of Gang Research Volume: 9 Issue: 4 Dated: Summer 2002 Pages: 33-44
Editor(s)
George W. Fox Ph.D.
Date Published
2002
Length
12 pages
Annotation
The article discusses the activities of motorcycle gangs operating in metropolitan Baltimore, Maryland.
Abstract
The author draws upon his experience as a Baltimore Police detective to present an overview of the activities and organization of motorcycle gangs active in the Mid-Atlantic Region and the Baltimore Metropolitan area specifically. The author provides a historical overview of the development of motorcycle gangs and the organized crime character and activities of such gangs. The evolution of such gang activities from misdemeanor or nuisance offenses to more serious criminal enterprises such as drug trafficking and money laundering is discussed. A case study of the evolution of the Pagan's Motorcycle Club, formed in Prince George's County Maryland in 1959, is provided. The author further collected police reports and court information to provide information concerning motorcycle gang violence against law enforcement personnel, the community, and fellow members. Law enforcement techniques designed at controlling gang activity including undercover operations, task force operations, the use of informants, and targeting of gang associates are reviewed. Based upon the information reviewed, the author recommends that police departments adopt a constant pressure strategy for dealing with these gangs in their individual communities. 25 references