Outlaw Biker Violence and Retaliation

• In Event: The Influence of Gangs Across Diverse Social Contexts

Abstract

Despite the number of outlaw bikers seems to be growing globally, little research exists on outlaw bikers and their allegedly violent tendencies. To address this, the current paper uses unique data to assess whether gang violence causes outlaw biker violence. The period examined runs from mid-2008 to early 2012 during which violent episodes occurred involving outlaw bikers and street gang members in an alleged conflict between the two in Copenhagen, Denmark. The paper studies whether acts of violence committed by members of competing groups are statistically associated. If so, retaliation might be an explanation. The sample consists of 640 individuals involved with outlaw motorcycle clubs or street gangs operating in Greater Copenhagen. Statistical models are used to predict 143 violent events committed by 196 individuals affiliated with Hells Angels MC. The results suggest that violence committed by individuals affiliated with street gangs to some degree do predict violence committed by individuals affiliated with Hells Angels MC. This indicates that violent acts committed by outlaw bikers might be at least partly retaliation carried out on behalf of their club.

Author

• Christian Klement, Aalborg University