Police are closely monitoring a notorious outlaw motorcycle gang that dominated the streets of northern Ontario in the past and seems to be resurging. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are on high alert due to increased activity from Satan’s Choice as several other biker groups maintain chapters across the northern region.
Detective-Inspector Scott Wade from the OPP’s Biker Enforcement Unit emphasized the need for vigilance when new outlaw motorcycle gangs emerge. The unit, operational for around three decades, collaborates with law enforcement agencies locally and internationally to combat these criminal groups.
Satan’s Choice, previously a prominent motorcycle gang in Ontario, was absorbed into the Hells Angels in the early 2000s in what is known as a “patch-over.” The club, led by former international boxer Bernie Guindon, has a strong Canadian identity. Guindon, who spent approximately 15 years in prison for various offenses, including an indecent assault on a minor and drug trafficking, saw the club revived last summer by his son, Harley.
Harley, a former Hells Angels member with his own criminal history, announced the reestablishment of the club on social media, intending to open chapters across Canada, including in northern Ontario. The resurgence of Satan’s Choice has raised concerns about potential conflicts with rival gangs.
Law enforcement is closely monitoring the situation, with social media posts indicating the establishment of new Satan’s Choice chapters in cities like Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Oshawa, and Hamilton. Detective-Inspector Wade confirmed the presence of various outlaw motorcycle gangs in northern Ontario, particularly in larger urban centers like Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, and North Bay.
The police are prepared to address any violence stemming from these gangs, focusing on public safety. Outlaw motorcycle gangs often recruit new members from the criminal underworld, targeting individuals involved in criminal activities or connected to existing members. These gangs operate with a non-conformist mentality, engaging in various criminal activities ranging from drug trafficking to violence.
Law enforcement agencies nationwide, including the Edmonton Police Service, are closely monitoring outlaw motorcycle gangs, which remain a top priority due to their criminal networks and activities. These gangs are distinct from recreational riding clubs, exhibiting structured criminal behavior and using fear and intimidation tactics.
The allure of freedom and brotherhood within biker culture can lead individuals into dangerous criminal networks, resulting in extortion, threats, and involvement in criminal activities. Despite the glamorized image, the harsh reality of the biker lifestyle often leads individuals to regret their choices as they face financial ruin, paranoia, loss of relationships, and encounters with law enforcement.
The risks associated with associating with outlaw motorcycle clubs are often underestimated, with many individuals unwittingly getting entangled in criminality and violence. Understanding the true nature of these groups and the potential consequences of involvement is crucial to preventing individuals from falling into a dangerous lifestyle.
