While North Dakota may not seem like a hotspot for biker gang activity, the state has experienced violence and crime linked to outlaw motorcycle clubs. Project Safe Neighborhoods reports that there are around 30 gangs in the state, such as Native American, street, prison, motorcycle, and youth gangs, with most of the activity centered in Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, and Bismarck.
Silence’s Sons
The Sons of Silence is one of the well-known biker gangs in North Dakota. It is an international outlaw motorcycle club that was established in Colorado in 1966. With a presence in 12 U.S. states and Germany, and boasting more than 250 members, the club has been labeled a criminal organization by the United States Department of Justice.
The Sons of Silence are involved in illegal activities like drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, extortion, and murder. They have a significant presence in North Dakota, especially in the western region, with chapters in Minot, Dickinson, Williston, and Mandan.
The Sons of Silence were involved in violent confrontations with rival gangs such as the Hells Angels, the Outlaws, and the Mongols. In 1999, they were targeted in a nationwide FBI raid that led to 37 arrests and the confiscation of drugs, guns, and explosives. In 2007, two individuals were found guilty of killing a man in Minot due to an outstanding drug debt.
Indigenous Gang
One more biker gang to watch out for in North Dakota is the Native Mob, a Native American gang that operates in several states such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and North Dakota. Established in the 1990s with the aim of safeguarding Native American communities, the Native Mob later engaged in criminal behavior including drug distribution, robbery, assault, and murder.
The gang has a strong presence in North Dakota, particularly in areas with large Native American populations like Fargo and Bismarck. They are known for engaging in violent conflicts with other Native American gangs like the Native Syndicate and the Native Pride.
In 2013, 25 members of the Native Mob were charged with racketeering, conspiracy, and murder. In 2018, a member of the Native Mob was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of a rival gang member in Fargo.
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Additional Motorcycle Clubs
In addition to the Sons of Silence and the Native Mob, North Dakota is also home to other biker gangs like the Hells Angels, the Pagans, the Outlaws, and the Bandidos. Described as “one-percenter” motorcycle clubs, they function unlawfully, participating in criminal actions such as drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, extortion, and murder.
Although these gangs do not have permanent chapters in North Dakota, there have been occasional visits for rallies, events, or territorial disputes. As an example, a Hells Angels member was apprehended in Fargo in 2016 for having methamphetamine and a firearm.
In 2017, a member of the Pagans was charged in Bismarck for assaulting a police officer. In 2018, a member of the Outlaws was arrested in Minot for being in possession of cocaine and a firearm. In 2019, a member of the Bandidos was apprehended in Grand Forks for being in possession of heroin and a firearm.
In conclusion
Biker gangs in North Dakota are a significant concern due to their involvement in violent and illegal activities that disrupt public safety and order. Despite efforts by state authorities to combat the issue through raids, arrests, and prosecutions, these gangs continue to operate and persist. It’s important for everyone to know about their presence and the potential risks, and to report any suspicious or criminal activities to the authorities.
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