Pubdate: Mon, 23 Jan 2012
Source: Denver Post (CO)
Copyright: 2012 The Denver Post Corp
Contact:  http://www.denverpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/122
Author: Felisa Cardona, The Denver Post

MOTORCYCLE GANG MEMBERS CHARGED WITH DRUG CRIMES, EXPLOSIVES THEFT

Nineteen members of the Hell's Lovers motorcycle gang were charged
this morning with drug trafficking crimes and stealing explosives and
body armor from law enforcement.

Several members are expected to appear in U.S. District Court in
Denver this afternoon.

Indictments allege that from January 2005 through September 2011, the
gang was dealing cocaine and marijuana from their clubhouses in Denver
and Commerce City.

Eleven members were arrested on Friday night by agents with the Bureau
of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals and the
Denver police.

Another man was arrested by Thornton police Saturday and one more
defendant is already in custody in state prison.

Authorities are looking for six more members who are wanted.

Several defendants are charged with maintaining a drug-involved
premise, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, cocaine and
crack cocaine, and being a prohibited person in possession of a
firearm. Some are also charged with possessing stolen explosive
materials, possession of body armor, and making and transferring
prohibited weapons.

During the arrests, agents found $165,500 in cash and
ammunition.

Two flash bang explosive devices and a ballistic vest stolen from the
Adams County sheriff's department and a ballistic vest stolen from the
U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration were also recovered.

"We know from experience that violence goes hand-in-hand with gangs
and drugs," said Marvin Richardson, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF
in Denver. "We will continue to combine our resources with our law
enforcement and prosecution partners to identify and remove anyone
that uses violent crime to further their criminal activity. Our goal
is to make our communities a safer and more secure place to live, and
today was another step in that direction."
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MAP posted-by: Richard R Smith Jr.