NCJ Number
182067
Journal
Gazette Volume: 61 Issue: 7-12 Dated: July/August 1999 Pages: 15-37
Editor(s)
Andre Thouin
Date Published
1999
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This article investigates outlaw motorcycle gangs in Canada.
Abstract
Outlaw bikers, with their personal criminal associates, present a serious economic and social threat to Canadian society. Since 1996, Canada has adopted a three-tier national strategy to combat the outlaw motorcycle gangs. The article outlines the strategy's components. In addition, the article examines outlaw motorcycle gangs' requirements for membership, initiation rites and policies regarding gang colors and insignias. The article presents details about gangs in different geographical areas: (1) the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut; (2) British Columbia, where police are concerned that the Hells Angels can and will use threats and intimidation to thwart police action and disrupt the judicial system; (3) Alberta; (4) Saskatchewan, which is prime territory for Hells Angels expansion; (5) Manitoba, which has a new initiative to combat motorcycle theft that can affect outlaw bikers; and (6) Ontario. It also describes several emergency task force anti-gang operations. Figure, references