Outlaw motorcycle gangs exist in every province of Canada. They interconnect across provincial jurisdictions and have national and international associations with other organized crime groups. Law enforcement monitors expanding criminal operations and arrests anyone involved in illegal activities.
At a Glance
Definition of Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs
Outlaw motorcycle gangs are groups of riders who commit organized crimes and follow their own rules.Characteristics of Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs
These gangs have hierarchical structure, clubhouses, rules, associates, and engage in criminal activities.Impacts on Canadian Society and Economy
These gangs commit crimes like fraud, drug trafficking, and violence, which threaten community safety and the economy.How to Protect Yourself and Community
Individuals should avoid supporting gangs by not buying support gear, avoiding their events, minimizing contact, and reporting suspicious activity.
The common term “1% Club” distinguishes outlaw motorcycle riders from the majority of motorcycle enthusiasts who are law-abiding citizens. It is worn as a symbol by outlaw bikers and is often seen as a pin, patch, or tattoo.
Learn How to Identify Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Members
Outlaw motorcycle gangs exist in every province of Canada. They interconnect across provincial jurisdictions and have national and international associations with other organized crime groups.
An outlaw motorcycle gang is any group of motorcycle riders and/or supporters who:
- Voluntarily make a commitment to band together
- Abide by their organization’s rules
- Engage in criminal activities
These activities are considered organized crime.
The common term “1% Club” distinguishes outlaw motorcycle riders from the majority of motorcycle enthusiasts who are law-abiding citizens. It is worn as a symbol by outlaw bikers and is often seen as a pin, patch, or tattoo.
Characteristics
The courts have determined that outlaw motorcycle gangs have the following characteristics:
- A hierarchical structure
- Membership
- Associates
- Colours
- Clubhouse
- Club rules
- Counter intelligence gathering
- Criminal activity
Impacts on Canadian Society and Econom
Outlaw motorcycle gangs commit crimes that damage the Canadian economy, such as:
- Fraud
- Counterfeiting
- Money laundering
- Extortion
- Corruption
They also threaten community safety through activities such as:
- Drug trafficking
- Illegal firearms trafficking
- Intimidation and assaults
- Murder and murder for hire
- Violence resulting from support and/or conflict with other gangs
Living near an outlaw motorcycle gang can affect your safety.
You can help ensure your safety, and the safety of your community, by learning about outlaw motorcycle gangs. Choose not to support organized criminal activity.
What Can You Do About Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs?
You can help ensure your safety, and the safety of your community, by learning about outlaw motorcycle gangs. Choose not to support organized criminal activity (including activities that seem harmless).
- Don’t buy or wear gang support gear (clothes, bandanas, badges, etc.)
- By purchasing support gear, you are giving money to gangs that are harming our communities.
- By wearing support gear, you are supporting the gang’s violent messaging and putting yourself at risk of attack from rival gangs.
- Don’t participate in charitable activities organized by these groups.
- They often target charities with donations and toy drives to sanitize their image and build community support.
- Minimize your contact with gang members.
- Report any suspicious activity to police.