San Diego, CA – A grand jury has indicted 17 members of the Hells Angels motorcycle club in connection with a racially motivated attack that occurred in Ocean Beach on June 6. The San Diego County District Attorney, Summer Stephan, announced the indictments, noting that the incident sparked a widespread investigation resulting in the arrest of the individuals in September.
Stephan described the attack as one of the largest violent crimes prosecutions against the Hells Angels locally and possibly nationwide. The altercation involved members and supporters of the motorcycle club chasing and assaulting three young Black men, aged 19, 20, and 21, in the Ocean Beach area.
The victims were subjected to racial slurs and were targeted while walking on Newport Avenue. The incident is believed to have been triggered by one of the victims interacting with a member’s girlfriend. Stephan emphasized that such behavior is a reflection of the group’s history of racism and noted the bystanders’ fear that prevented them from intervening during the attack.
Following a three-month investigation, law enforcement agencies executed multiple search warrants and arrests, leading to the apprehension of the 17 individuals involved. Charges range from assault and hate crimes to accessory after the fact, with one suspect facing an attempted murder charge.
One of the accused, Troy Andrew Scholder, is accused of stabbing one of the victims and attempting to evade authorities by changing his appearance. He has been affiliated with the Hells Angels since at least 2003 and faces a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
Officials highlighted the extensive use of surveillance and witness testimonies in uncovering the details of the incident. The indictments include various charges against the individuals, with some facing allegations linked to hate crimes and criminal gang associations.
Despite facing different charges, most of the indicted individuals could potentially serve between 3 to 17 years in prison. The arraignments for the accused began recently, with some already bailing out of custody.
For safety reasons, the names of the victims have not been disclosed. Stephan assured that they are recovering well but remain concerned about the aftermath of the incident. Several law enforcement agencies collaborated in the investigation, shedding light on the hierarchical structure within the Hells Angels group and estimating the presence of 25 members in San Diego.
The case underscores the efforts of authorities to address hate crimes and violence, particularly within organized criminal groups, aiming to ensure justice and safety in the community.