Members of the Hell’s Angels self-identify as “one percenters,” a nickname that stems from the belief that only one percent of troublemakers tarnish the reputation of the other ninety-nine percent of law-abiding bikers. The Hell’s Angels motorcycle gang, commonly referred to as outlaws, comprises individuals who defy societal norms and live by their own code. This notorious group has a longstanding presence in the United States and various other nations, engaging in disruptive activities.
The Hell’s Angels, a dangerous motorcycle gang with a history of engaging in activities such as drug trafficking and assault, were originally perceived as a militant group during the 1960s and the time of the world wars. Their presence in California has been significant since 1948, when the Hell’s Angels motorcycle club was established in the town of Fontana. This was made possible by the availability of affordable motorcycles through military surplus at that time.
At the same time, many veterans from the world wars who had nothing to occupy their time decided to purchase motorcycles and join in on the adventure. The Hell’s Angels gang remained in California until 1961 when they established their first chapter in Auckland, New Zealand. The initiator of the gang was a veteran known as Otto Friedli. Eventually, the club expanded its presence to include most of the United States and 30 other countries. It is said that the club thrived due to the outlaws setting their own guidelines (James). On average, members of Hell’s Angels ride over 20,000 miles annually on their Harley motorcycles (James Randy).
This is how the Hell’s Angels club became so large and influential. Unlike a typical club, the Hell’s Angels is known for its criminal activities but also for its involvement in charitable work for kids and veterans. The motto of the Hell’s Angels, according to James Randy, is “when we do right nobody remembers, when we do wrong nobody forgets.” As a result, the club engages in numerous illicit transactions to generate substantial amounts of money.
The Hell’s Angels is identified by the ATF as one of the nation’s largest organized criminal networks, comparable to major mafias (The Hell’s Angels Devilish Business). In the 1980s, an FBI detective carried out undercover surveillance on the Hell’s Angels and observed multiple occurrences of drug use and sales, assault, theft, and various violations related to weapons (The Hell’s Angels Devilish Business). Furthermore, the Hell’s Angels are engaged in both drug sales and manufacturing.
The main source of income for the Hell’s Angels is the production and sale of methamphetamine. They refrain from dealing with heroin and crack cocaine in order to prevent their members from developing addictions. This notorious motorcycle gang is widely recognized as a dangerous group that should be avoided. In addition to drug trafficking, the Hell’s Angels generate profits through various other illegal activities. Established in 1948, they typically spend their time in their own bars where alcohol consumption is prevalent. All members partake in a wide range of unlawful actions as a means of generating income. With a presence throughout the entire United States, the Hell’s Angels are active nationwide.
