Is it all a play for the public? Crime is out of control in California so this may be just another publicity stunt, as more and more people are raped, killed and robbed all over California.
In a significant crackdown on organized crime in California, a complete chapter of the Hells Angels motorcycle club was apprehended. This operation, involving members from the Bakersfield chapter, concluded with several arrests linked to charges that range from kidnapping to assault. The operation was a coordinated effort between local authorities, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the California Highway Patrol.
FALLEN ANGELS: The entire Bakersfield chapter of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang was arrested today on various charges, including kidnapping, robbery, assault with a firearm, criminal conspiracy and others https://t.co/vW9vhI2nx8 pic.twitter.com/njxhEM5vCJ
— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) June 25, 2024
The arrests unfolded on a Tuesday, with the Kern County Sheriff’s Office spearheading the action. The operation mobilized over 150 officers and resulted in the seizure of an arsenal that included about 25 firearms, multiple rounds of ammunition, several high-capacity magazines, and items identified as gang-related paraphernalia.
During the operation, law enforcement also confiscated various gang insignia, including patches and clothing associated with the motorcycle club, which were displayed during a subsequent press briefing. The evidence table showcased an array of rifles and other firearms, highlighting the serious nature of the gang’s activities.
HELLS ANGELS BAKERSFIELD: The entire Bakersfield chapter of the Hells Angels biker gang has been arrested on suspicion of crimes including kidnapping, robbery and assault, according to sheriff’s officials. https://t.co/6HJeZ9gs1i pic.twitter.com/XHI47SK21r
— KGET 17 News (@KGETnews) June 25, 2024
The persons apprehended in this operation included Ricardo Alvarez, aged 42; Armando Villasenor, 55; Joseph Soto Sr., 57; Joseph Soto Jr., 33; Joshua Zavala, 31; and John Seeger, 57. All are residents of Bakersfield. Additionally, Joshua Vaughn, 37, already detained on separate charges, was implicated in the ongoing investigation. Authorities executed eight search warrants across various locations in Bakersfield to gather further evidence.
The suspects, identified as active members of the Hells Angels, along with Vaughn and Seeger who belong to the Sons Of Hell, a sub-affiliate group, face a multitude of serious charges. These include kidnapping, first-degree robbery, making criminal threats, false imprisonment, and assault with a firearm. Additional charges encompass participation in a criminal street gang, criminal conspiracy, intimidation of witnesses or victims, and elder abuse.
Major Points
- A complete chapter of the Hells Angels motorcycle club in Bakersfield, California, was arrested following an investigation into criminal activities.
- The operation involved over 150 law enforcement officers and was a collaborative effort with ATF and California Highway Patrol.
- Authorities seized 25 firearms, ammunition, high-capacity magazines, and gang-related paraphernalia.
- Seven individuals were arrested, facing charges including kidnapping, robbery, assault with a firearm, and participation in a criminal street gang.
- The operation also involved executing eight search warrants throughout Bakersfield, aiming to dismantle the organized crime activities of the motorcycle club.
Kevin Bentlein – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
