Police are closely monitoring the resurgence of an outlaw motorcycle gang in northern Ontario, known as Satan’s Choice, which was once a dominant force in the region. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is paying attention to the renewed activity of the gang, as other biker groups also maintain chapters in the north.
Det.-Insp. Scott Wade of OPP’s Biker Enforcement Unit emphasized the need to assess the potential risks associated with emerging outlaw motorcycle gangs, including the possibility of violence and criminal activities. The unit, operational for about three decades, collaborates with law enforcement agencies both in Ontario and internationally to combat outlaw motorcycle groups.
Before being integrated into the Hells Angels through a “patch-over” process in the early 2000s, Satan’s Choice held a prominent position as one of Ontario’s most influential motorcycle clubs. The club, led by former international boxer Bernie Guindon, maintained an all-Canadian identity.
Harley Guindon, a former Hells Angels member and son of Bernie Guindon, announced the relaunch of Satan’s Choice in August, with plans to establish chapters across Canada, including in northern Ontario. Notably, Harley has a history of criminal convictions, including assault, forcible confinement, and drug trafficking.
In the past, clashes between Satan’s Choice and law enforcement in northern Ontario have occurred, such as the 1996 incident where a bomb exploded near the Sudbury police station. Despite the gang’s resurgence, OPP is vigilant about potential conflicts with rival clubs in the area.
Outlaw motorcycle gangs, characterized by their non-conformist and criminal nature, pose a significant public safety concern, according to Sgt. Ryan Ferry of the Edmonton Police Service. These gangs are distinct from recreational riding clubs due to their organizational structure, criminal affiliations, and use of fear and intimidation tactics.
Ferry highlighted the national law enforcement focus on outlaw motorcycle gangs, noting their involvement in various criminal activities like drug trafficking and human trafficking. The interconnectedness between biker gangs and other criminal networks is a growing concern, particularly in provinces like Ontario.
The allure of the outlaw biker lifestyle, with its themes of freedom and brotherhood, can entrap individuals into criminal activities and expose them to violence and extortion. While some may initially romanticize this lifestyle, many eventually regret their involvement due to financial losses, strained relationships, or encounters with law enforcement.
It is crucial for the public to understand the risks associated with associating with outlaw motorcycle gangs, as these groups are not immune to violence and internal conflicts. Law enforcement agencies are prepared to address any potential escalation of violence and criminal activities associated with these groups.