Authorities demolish motorcycle gang compound
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Demolition began Tuesday on three buildings belonging to the Outlaws Motorcycle Gang where public officials hoped that bringing down the buildings would bring down the crime.
Two of the buildings are located on the 2200 block of East New York Street, where the group’s bunk house and housing sat. The gang’s clubhouse, on the 300 block of North Jefferson Avenue, is the third building that will be torn down.
Demolishing the buildings is the final piece in dismantling the Outlaws. Over the years, police have arrested members and three years ago the FBI conducted a raid of their compound, but the criminal activity continued.
As the building came down, people lined the streets. They were taking pictures and capturing video.
“I used to live in the building right behind you. This used to be one of the safest places in town because of this club house,” said one spectator who didn’t want to give his name.
But city leaders don’t agree. Federal, state and local authorities as well as city leaders gathered during a news conference. Authorities say the buildings have served as a hub for criminal activity over the last two decades.
“I can recall as a young trooper being inside these buildings serving search warrants. The conditions were so deplorable that when I got home, I would not wear my shoes back into my own home until I scrubbed them off,” said Capt. Dave Bursten of the Indiana State Police.
In 2012, the FBI and local law enforcement raided the compound. There were 51 people that were convicted, including all active Indianapolis members, according to the lead prosecutor of that case, Bradley Blackington. He said they were tipped off by an insider.
“This informant who associated with the Outlaws for a number of years, who knew what they were about, felt threatened by them. (They) felt that they posed an unacceptable danger to the community and had enough,” said Blackington.
Authorities accuse the gang of drug trafficking, extortion, money laundering, robbery and more. They say arrests did not stop criminal activity because members always had a place to return. By demolishing the buildings, they hope this will put an end to the Outlaws and send a message.
“We’re tearing down all the tyranny that exists from motorcycle clubs to gangs in general. This is a historic day,” said IMPD Police Chief Rick Hite.
Blackington says the Outlaws have charters around the world and believes they could resurface in central Indiana. Authorities say they’re ready if and when they do regroup.
The land is being donated to the city of Indianapolis. Demolition expenses are being covered by money seized from other criminals.
