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The Diablos Motorcycle Club is one of the most notorious “outlaw” biker gangs in the United States, with a long and storied history of criminal activity and a reputation for violence and lawlessness. Founded over 60 years ago in California, the Diablos have since expanded to multiple chapters across the country, cementing their status as a formidable and influential force within the world of motorcycle clubs.
1. Founded in 1961 in California
The Diablos Motorcycle Club was originally founded in 1961 in San Bernardino, California by Jack Baltas. The club has since grown to have multiple chapters across the United States, including in Connecticut, Indiana, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Despite its relatively humble beginnings over 60 years ago, the Diablos MC has earned a notorious reputation as an “outlaw” motorcycle club, known for its involvement in various criminal activities and its strict “white-only” membership policy.
2. Reputation for Criminal Activities
As an “outlaw” motorcycle club, the Diablos are known to engage in a range of illegal pursuits, with many members having been convicted of serious crimes such as murder, drug trafficking, and assault. This reputation for lawlessness has led to the club facing financial crises at various points, particularly in the 1970s and 1990s, when some members reportedly resorted to illicit means to generate income for the organization.
3. White-Only Membership Policy
One of the more controversial aspects of the Diablos MC is its strict “white-only” membership policy. The club does not accept black or Hispanic members, a practice that has drawn criticism from civil rights groups and law enforcement over the years. However, the Diablos place a strong emphasis on unity and brotherhood within their ranks, with members expected to remain loyal to the club and not defect to rival organizations.
4. Strict Loyalty and Discipline
The Diablos MC is known for its strict code of loyalty and discipline among its members. Members are expected to remain loyal to the club and not defect to rival organizations, even in the face of legal troubles or personal conflicts. This unwavering commitment to the club is a key part of the Diablos’ identity and contributes to their reputation as a formidable and cohesive “outlaw” biker gang.
5. Legal Troubles and Convictions
The Diablos’ reputation for criminal activity has led to numerous run-ins with the law over the years. In 1998, eight members were charged with various crimes, while in 2006, the club’s vice president was indicted on cocaine trafficking charges. The club’s founder and national president, Jack Baltas, also had a brush with the law, passing away in 2012 at the age of 70, just two days after being released from prison for drug trafficking.
6. Continued Operation Despite Legal Issues
Despite these legal troubles, the Diablos Motorcycle Club continues to operate, with its chapters scattered across the country. The club’s emphasis on unity, brotherhood, and loyalty, combined with its long history of involvement in criminal activities, has cemented its status as one of the most notorious “outlaw” biker gangs in the United States.
7. Financial Crises in the Past
The Diablos MC has a history of facing financial crises, particularly in the 1970s and 1990s. These financial difficulties led some members to resort to illegal means to generate income for the organization, further contributing to the club’s reputation for criminal activities.
8. Chapters Across the U.S.
The Diablos Motorcycle Club has multiple chapters across the United States, including in Connecticut, Indiana, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. This widespread presence has allowed the club to maintain its influence and continue its operations despite legal challenges and crackdowns.
9. Involvement in Organized Crime
In addition to the Diablos’ reputation for individual criminal activities, the club has also been linked to involvement in organized crime networks. Some members have been accused of participating in drug trafficking, money laundering, and other illicit activities on a larger scale, further cementing the Diablos’ status as a dangerous and influential “outlaw” motorcycle gang.
10. Shooting Incident at Diablos MC Clubhouse in Indiana
In April 2017, a shooting incident occurred near the Diablos Motorcycle Club’s clubhouse in Terre Haute, Indiana. According to police reports, the incident stemmed from an earlier fight or beating that had taken place at the Diablos’ clubhouse. The shooting victim, 54-year-old Kenny Pitts, suffered two gunshot wounds and was in critical condition. Five Diablos MC members were arrested and charged with crimes such as aggravated battery, criminal gang activity, and obstruction of justice in connection with the shooting. The incident highlighted the Diablos’ involvement in violent criminal activities and their willingness to resort to violence to protect their interests.
