Raid reveals structure of gang that's facing racketeering counts | The Portland Press Herald / Maine Sunday Telegram

Raid reveals structure of gang that's facing racketeering counts | The Portland Press Herald / Maine Sunday Telegram: "raid on an Old Orchard Beach house Tuesday in which a reputed regional leader of the Outlaws motorcycle gang was shot and killed was the product of two years of undercover police work that shone light on the inner workings of the organization.A 50-page federal indictment summarizing the case against 27 Outlaws exposes what prosecutors say is a criminal conspiracy to commit violence, but it also reveals lesser-known aspects of life as a club member.
The club's fundamental principles are fondness for American-made motorcycles and loyalty to fellow members.
The club also is known for its hatred of and competition with rival motorcycle clubs, namely the Hells Angels and affiliated clubs.
That rivalry is at the heart of the federal racketeering charges, which cite orders given through the club's chain of command to commit illegal acts such as attempted murder -- in particular, the shooting of a Hells Angels member last year in Canaan. The group is also charged with coordinating crimes including illegal gambling, drug trafficking and extortion.
'The Outlaws is a highly organized criminal enterprise with a defined, multi-level chain of command,' the indictment says. It also describes the American Outlaw Association:"