Canada - Local cops are keeping an eye on members of a notorious outlaw motorcycle gang visiting Chatham-Kent.
"The Chatham-Kent Police Service is aware of an apparent increase in biker activity in our community over the past couple of years," said Sgt. Jeff Schamahorn, head of the intelligence section. "The presence of Hells Angels and other outlaw motorcycle gangs has been monitored by police."
He confirmed members of the Hells Angels were in the municipality for a funeral this summer.
According to an article in the Tilbury Times, published in July, Hells Angels were also in Chatham-Kent for a charity Harley draw. Police drew criticism from organizers for their obvious surveillance of the event.
Schamahorn said police watch biker activity to gather intelligence in an effort to restrict the potential for crime.
"Outlaw motorcycle gangs are a concern to the police as they bring with them the potential of organized crime activities," he said, adding that can include drug trafficking, intimidation and extortion.
In 2005, an Ontario court recognized the Hells Angels as a criminal organization.
The sergeant said local police are committed to minimizing the impact of biker gangs.
"It's a concern that we have like any other organized crime group," he said. "We're on top of it and we're monitoring it."
Schamahorn said that while members of the Hells Angels have been spotted in Chatham-Kent, there isn't a local club.
"We've noted that they've had an association with another motorcycle club in the community," he said. He wouldn't name the local club.
According to the Hells Angels' official website, the motorcycle club has chapters in London and Windsor.
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