GAINESVILLE — Florida walk-on football player Michael Guilford was killed early Friday morning in a motorcycle accident in Gainesville.
Guilford, a redshirt freshman from Quincy, crashed his 1998 Kawasaki motorcycle into a median around 1 a.m, killing both him and passenger Ashley Slonina, also a Florida student. Neither Guilford nor Slonina was wearing a helmet, Gainesville Police spokesman Keith Kameg said.
Police believe excessive speed was a factor in the accident. Police are also investigating whether alcohol was involved. Guilford, nicknamed "Sunshine" because of his blonde hair, was a star on the scout team, frequently imitating the opposition's quarterback. He acted as Troy Smith as the Gators prepared to face Ohio State in the national championship game, and acted as Kentucky's Andre Woodson in practice Thursday, according to the Tampa Tribune.
Source: Palm Beach Post
Friday, October 12, 2007
Friday, September 28, 2007
Miller Brewing Company and American Motorcyclist Association Launch National Motorcycle Safety Program
Keep Your Balance Program Introduced at Tomahawk Fall Ride
MILWAUKEE, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Miller Brewing Company and the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) have partnered to create Keep Your Balance, a comprehensive program intended to promote safe motorcycle riding practices and responsible alcohol consumption. The program, endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police, officially launched Sept. 14 at the Tomahawk, WI Fall Ride.
Miller believes that individual responsibility is enhanced by the ability to make informed choices. Keep Your Balance promotes rider education and emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and getting home safely. Following the Tomahawk kickoff, this national program will be a part of additional motorcycle events across the country including the upcoming ride in York, Pa. Sept. 27 - 29.
"Our goal with Keep Your Balance is to provide motorcycle enthusiasts and local retailers with information about how to reduce irresponsible motorcycle riding, due to over-consumption of alcohol, unsafe riding practices or insufficient training," said Diane Wagner, alcohol responsibility manager at Miller Brewing Company. "Our kickoff in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, Miller's home state, was a great success and allowed us to introduce the program, share safe riding tips and remind the more than 40,000 riders in attendance about responsible drinking. Several hundred riders signed pledges to ride responsibly and our program materials and mission were well-received. The riders recognize the need for this type of program and Miller and the AMA look forward to expanding our reach at several upcoming events."
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data released in August 2007, motorcycle fatalities have increased 47 percent since 2002, making this program especially relevant to riders today. Under the umbrella of Miller's successful Respect the Road program, Keep Your Balance will provide motorcycle riders and retailers with educational training materials and tools to encourage responsible practices and to help prevent the hazards associated with impaired motorcycle riding.
"Training is one of the best things a rider can do for themselves and others on the road. Our aim is to help spread awareness and encourage riders to use good judgment," said Rob Dingman, AMA president and chief executive officer. "Educational programs like Keep Your Balance are crucial for decreasing the number of alcohol-related motorcycle crashes occurring today."
Elements of the program include: certified server training for local retailers, a public awareness campaign, training resources for riders, educational materials on safe riding practices, retail involvement and promotion, incentive giveaways such as training kits and t-shirts for responsible riding pledges, outdoor advertising and program messaging and prepaid phone cards offering responsible riding tips provided by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Miller will also utilize its national distributor network to help promote and communicate the program via retailers. Public awareness will be sustained through web communications including a web site dedicated to the Keep Your Balance program at http://www.millerkeepyourbalance.com/.
About Miller Brewing Company
As one of America's oldest brewers, Miller Brewing Company continues the commitment of founder Frederick J. Miller to brew "confoundedly good beers" with "uncompromising quality." Through more than 150 years of innovation and brewing excellence, Miller has built a broad portfolio of award-winning beers that capture approximately 18 percent of the U.S. beer market. In the past decade, Miller beers have won 105 medals -- more than twice as many as its major competitors -- at the biannual World Beer Cup and annual Great American Beer Fest. An unprecedented four-time gold award winner at the World Beer Cup, Miller Lite is the great tasting, less filling beer that has defined the American light lager category since 1975. Miller's latest innovation, Miller Chill, is a chelada-style beer brewed with lime and salt, providing a unique twist on refreshment. Miller also brews smooth, golden rich Miller Genuine Draft using a unique cold-filtering process introduced in 1985. The company's oldest brew is Miller High Life, the champagne of beers. Miller imports Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Pilsner Urquell, Tyskie and Foster's, and it offers regional craft brews from the Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company and the Blitz-Weinhard Brewing Company. Near-premium beers include Milwaukee's Best Light, Steel Reserve, Olde English 800, Mickey's Malt Liquor, Icehouse and Sharp's, a non-alcohol brew. Miller also offers the Sparks line of caffeinated alcohol beverages. Miller is a wholly owned subsidiary of SABMiller plc, one of the world's leading brewers with a global footprint spread across five continents. For more information, visit http://www.millerbrewing.com/.
Source: Miller Brewing Company
MILWAUKEE, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Miller Brewing Company and the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) have partnered to create Keep Your Balance, a comprehensive program intended to promote safe motorcycle riding practices and responsible alcohol consumption. The program, endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police, officially launched Sept. 14 at the Tomahawk, WI Fall Ride.
Miller believes that individual responsibility is enhanced by the ability to make informed choices. Keep Your Balance promotes rider education and emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and getting home safely. Following the Tomahawk kickoff, this national program will be a part of additional motorcycle events across the country including the upcoming ride in York, Pa. Sept. 27 - 29.
"Our goal with Keep Your Balance is to provide motorcycle enthusiasts and local retailers with information about how to reduce irresponsible motorcycle riding, due to over-consumption of alcohol, unsafe riding practices or insufficient training," said Diane Wagner, alcohol responsibility manager at Miller Brewing Company. "Our kickoff in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, Miller's home state, was a great success and allowed us to introduce the program, share safe riding tips and remind the more than 40,000 riders in attendance about responsible drinking. Several hundred riders signed pledges to ride responsibly and our program materials and mission were well-received. The riders recognize the need for this type of program and Miller and the AMA look forward to expanding our reach at several upcoming events."
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data released in August 2007, motorcycle fatalities have increased 47 percent since 2002, making this program especially relevant to riders today. Under the umbrella of Miller's successful Respect the Road program, Keep Your Balance will provide motorcycle riders and retailers with educational training materials and tools to encourage responsible practices and to help prevent the hazards associated with impaired motorcycle riding.
"Training is one of the best things a rider can do for themselves and others on the road. Our aim is to help spread awareness and encourage riders to use good judgment," said Rob Dingman, AMA president and chief executive officer. "Educational programs like Keep Your Balance are crucial for decreasing the number of alcohol-related motorcycle crashes occurring today."
Elements of the program include: certified server training for local retailers, a public awareness campaign, training resources for riders, educational materials on safe riding practices, retail involvement and promotion, incentive giveaways such as training kits and t-shirts for responsible riding pledges, outdoor advertising and program messaging and prepaid phone cards offering responsible riding tips provided by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Miller will also utilize its national distributor network to help promote and communicate the program via retailers. Public awareness will be sustained through web communications including a web site dedicated to the Keep Your Balance program at http://www.millerkeepyourbalance.com/.
About Miller Brewing Company
As one of America's oldest brewers, Miller Brewing Company continues the commitment of founder Frederick J. Miller to brew "confoundedly good beers" with "uncompromising quality." Through more than 150 years of innovation and brewing excellence, Miller has built a broad portfolio of award-winning beers that capture approximately 18 percent of the U.S. beer market. In the past decade, Miller beers have won 105 medals -- more than twice as many as its major competitors -- at the biannual World Beer Cup and annual Great American Beer Fest. An unprecedented four-time gold award winner at the World Beer Cup, Miller Lite is the great tasting, less filling beer that has defined the American light lager category since 1975. Miller's latest innovation, Miller Chill, is a chelada-style beer brewed with lime and salt, providing a unique twist on refreshment. Miller also brews smooth, golden rich Miller Genuine Draft using a unique cold-filtering process introduced in 1985. The company's oldest brew is Miller High Life, the champagne of beers. Miller imports Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Pilsner Urquell, Tyskie and Foster's, and it offers regional craft brews from the Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company and the Blitz-Weinhard Brewing Company. Near-premium beers include Milwaukee's Best Light, Steel Reserve, Olde English 800, Mickey's Malt Liquor, Icehouse and Sharp's, a non-alcohol brew. Miller also offers the Sparks line of caffeinated alcohol beverages. Miller is a wholly owned subsidiary of SABMiller plc, one of the world's leading brewers with a global footprint spread across five continents. For more information, visit http://www.millerbrewing.com/.
Source: Miller Brewing Company
Monday, September 24, 2007
Miller Lite Revs up for Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration
Two Legendary Milwaukee Icons to Team Up Again for Major Celebration; Brewer Planning National Summer Promotion Featuring Harley-Davidson(R) Motorcycles
MILWAUKEE, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Miller Lite is inviting millions of Harley-Davidson(R) motorcycle owners and enthusiasts to ride towards great taste and refreshment next summer.
Building on a relationship between two Milwaukee neighbors that dates to Harley-Davidson's 90th anniversary celebration in 1993, Miller Lite will be the exclusive malt beverage sponsor of next year's Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration. The only light beer to win four gold medals in the bi-annual World Beer Cup's American-style Light Lager category, Miller Lite will feature a national summer promotion highlighting the Harley-Davidson affiliation.
"This is a natural alliance that brings together two great American companies who know how to exceed consumer expectations," said Tom Long, Miller's president and CEO. "American beer drinkers who want great beer taste and refreshment in their light beer know that Miller Lite is the best choice, just as riders who truly appreciate world-class power and design in motorcycles have looked to Harley-Davidson since 1903. Together, we'll invite people on a journey that will highlight the best that summer has to offer."
The Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration is highlighted by two key elements: -- The Ride Home will be the biggest Harley-Davidson Anniversary ride in
history. There will be 105 unique starting points around the United
States, each hosted by a Harley-Davidson Motor Company representative.
The 105 starting points will all feed into 25 major routes bound for
Milwaukee with an arrival date of August 28, 2008.
-- There will be four days of non-stop activities planned throughout the
city of Milwaukee from August 28-31. The events will be centered
around the Milwaukee lakefront area with highlights including music,
food and entertainment, activities at the Harley-Davidson Museum(TM),
and a special Harley-Davidson exhibit at Discovery World.
Miller Lite's Harley-Davidson promotion will kick off in mid-May, featuring commemorative packaging, motorcycle giveaways, additional Miller Lite/Harley-Davidson branded merchandise that will be given away as part of the Miller Lite promotion, point-of-sale materials and regional/local promotions and events. More details of the Miller Lite promotion will be available in early 2008. The brand also will be actively involved the 105th Ride Home and the Celebration in Milwaukee.
"We're thrilled to have Miller Lite join us on our 105th Anniversary journey and are looking forward to a great celebration year," said Joanne Bischmann, Harley-Davidson vice president - licensing and special events.
Both Miller Brewing Company and Harley-Davidson produce quality products that millions of Americans enjoy. It is extremely important to both companies that these products are enjoyed safely and responsibly. In an effort to promote safe motorcycle riding practices and responsible alcohol consumption, Miller and the American Motorcyclist Association have partnered to create Keep Your Balance, a comprehensive educational program for riders. The program launched at the Harley-Davidson-sponsored Tomahawk Fall Ride and will have a presence at upcoming motorcycle events across the country, including the 105th Anniversary Celebration. Miller will also utilize its national distributor network to help promote and communicate the program via retailers. Visit http://www.millerkeepyourbalance.com/ for more information.
MILWAUKEE, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Miller Lite is inviting millions of Harley-Davidson(R) motorcycle owners and enthusiasts to ride towards great taste and refreshment next summer.
Building on a relationship between two Milwaukee neighbors that dates to Harley-Davidson's 90th anniversary celebration in 1993, Miller Lite will be the exclusive malt beverage sponsor of next year's Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration. The only light beer to win four gold medals in the bi-annual World Beer Cup's American-style Light Lager category, Miller Lite will feature a national summer promotion highlighting the Harley-Davidson affiliation.
"This is a natural alliance that brings together two great American companies who know how to exceed consumer expectations," said Tom Long, Miller's president and CEO. "American beer drinkers who want great beer taste and refreshment in their light beer know that Miller Lite is the best choice, just as riders who truly appreciate world-class power and design in motorcycles have looked to Harley-Davidson since 1903. Together, we'll invite people on a journey that will highlight the best that summer has to offer."
The Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration is highlighted by two key elements: -- The Ride Home will be the biggest Harley-Davidson Anniversary ride in
history. There will be 105 unique starting points around the United
States, each hosted by a Harley-Davidson Motor Company representative.
The 105 starting points will all feed into 25 major routes bound for
Milwaukee with an arrival date of August 28, 2008.
-- There will be four days of non-stop activities planned throughout the
city of Milwaukee from August 28-31. The events will be centered
around the Milwaukee lakefront area with highlights including music,
food and entertainment, activities at the Harley-Davidson Museum(TM),
and a special Harley-Davidson exhibit at Discovery World.
Miller Lite's Harley-Davidson promotion will kick off in mid-May, featuring commemorative packaging, motorcycle giveaways, additional Miller Lite/Harley-Davidson branded merchandise that will be given away as part of the Miller Lite promotion, point-of-sale materials and regional/local promotions and events. More details of the Miller Lite promotion will be available in early 2008. The brand also will be actively involved the 105th Ride Home and the Celebration in Milwaukee.
"We're thrilled to have Miller Lite join us on our 105th Anniversary journey and are looking forward to a great celebration year," said Joanne Bischmann, Harley-Davidson vice president - licensing and special events.
Both Miller Brewing Company and Harley-Davidson produce quality products that millions of Americans enjoy. It is extremely important to both companies that these products are enjoyed safely and responsibly. In an effort to promote safe motorcycle riding practices and responsible alcohol consumption, Miller and the American Motorcyclist Association have partnered to create Keep Your Balance, a comprehensive educational program for riders. The program launched at the Harley-Davidson-sponsored Tomahawk Fall Ride and will have a presence at upcoming motorcycle events across the country, including the 105th Anniversary Celebration. Miller will also utilize its national distributor network to help promote and communicate the program via retailers. Visit http://www.millerkeepyourbalance.com/ for more information.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Yoshimura Suzuki's Ben Spies Clinches the AMA Superstock Championship with One Round Remaining
BRASELTON, Ga., Sept. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Yoshimura Suzuki's Ben Spies clinched the 2007 AMA Superstock Championship after winning the penultimate race of the season at Road Atlanta in Braselton, Ga., on Sunday afternoon. With one round of AMA Superstock remaining, Spies went for the win even though he only had to finish in sixth place or better to take the title. Yoshimura Suzuki's Spies is also the defending 2006 AMA Superbike Champion and currently leads the points in the premier class this year as well.
"It was a good race for us today," said Spies. "I wanted to win the championship but I wanted to win the race pretty bad too. So I just tried to put in consistent lap times on the Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000. It's great to win the Superstock championship for Suzuki. The Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000 is an amazing bike and has worked great at every track we've raced at this year. I want to thank Suzuki and my crew for working so hard for me all season long."
En route to capturing the 2007 AMA Superstock championship, the 23-year- old Texan has won an impressive seven out of eight races so far this season. Spies also captured six pole positions in AMA Superstock, including the coveted starting spot at Road Atlanta this weekend. Prior to that, Spies also won the 2003 AMA Formula Xtreme championship in his rookie season for the factory-supported Yoshimura Suzuki team.
"Winning the 2007 AMA Superstock championship is a great accomplishment for Suzuki and the Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000 as well as for Ben," said Mel Harris, American Suzuki Vice President Motorcycle/ATV Division. "Over the last few years, we've asked a lot from Ben and he hasn't disappointed us. Ben is a talented young rider and he truly brings out the best in the Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000."
For more information on Spies and Yoshimura Suzuki, please log on to www.teamsuzuki.com.
Source: Yoshimura Suzuki
"It was a good race for us today," said Spies. "I wanted to win the championship but I wanted to win the race pretty bad too. So I just tried to put in consistent lap times on the Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000. It's great to win the Superstock championship for Suzuki. The Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000 is an amazing bike and has worked great at every track we've raced at this year. I want to thank Suzuki and my crew for working so hard for me all season long."
En route to capturing the 2007 AMA Superstock championship, the 23-year- old Texan has won an impressive seven out of eight races so far this season. Spies also captured six pole positions in AMA Superstock, including the coveted starting spot at Road Atlanta this weekend. Prior to that, Spies also won the 2003 AMA Formula Xtreme championship in his rookie season for the factory-supported Yoshimura Suzuki team.
"Winning the 2007 AMA Superstock championship is a great accomplishment for Suzuki and the Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000 as well as for Ben," said Mel Harris, American Suzuki Vice President Motorcycle/ATV Division. "Over the last few years, we've asked a lot from Ben and he hasn't disappointed us. Ben is a talented young rider and he truly brings out the best in the Yoshimura Suzuki GSX-R1000."
For more information on Spies and Yoshimura Suzuki, please log on to www.teamsuzuki.com.
Source: Yoshimura Suzuki
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Death-crash doctor spared jail in death of motorcyclist
A doctor walked free from court today over the death of a motorcyclist after she drove the wrong way down a dual carriageway.
Dr Thuli Whitehouse, 27, was given a 51-week prison sentence but it was suspended for two years by a judge who at her trial had called her a "golden young woman".
She was also banned from driving for four years and must do 150 hours' community work.
The Murrell family later issued a statement through Thames Valley Police which said: "We are very upset by the verdict reached today.
"We appreciate no sentence will bring back our son and father, but we feel the sentence is far too lenient and we will be appealing against the sentence."
Whitehouse had been found guilty by a jury of causing the death of motorcyclist Robert Murrell, of Southmoor, near Abingdon, in a crash on the A420 near Appleton in June last year.
Whitehouse turned left, the wrong way, out of the Appleton junction and drove for a short distance down the eastbound carriageway and into the path of Mr Murrell, 33. He was killed and the doctor's boyfriend, Dr Hugh Grant-Peterkin, critically injured.
During her trial, the jury heard that Mr Murrell, of Southmoor, near Abingdon, was travelling at speeds of between 87mph and 103mph and died instantly.
Judge David Morton Jack was told Whitehouse missed nine separate road markings and signs instructing her to turn left on to a dual carriageway.
Instead, the doctor drove straight across the A420, near Appleton, to reach a gap in the crash barriers to get to the opposite side of the road.
The jury heard from witnesses who saw her at the end of the side road on to the busy road, reverse and then go to the other side of a traffic island.
Whitehouse, of Upper Cheltenham Place, Bristol, told the jury that she must have been "confused" and would never drive dangerously.
The jury took less than an hour to find her guilty of causing death by dangerous driving.
Today, Judge Morton Jack again paid tribute to Whitehouse and her career as a doctor. He said he had received a number of tributes and he believed this was such an exceptional case that he could suspend her prison sentence.
He said she had a good driving record and no previous convictions of any sort.
"Your character and career are exceptional, indeed golden."
He added: "You have had to live with the knowledge and effect of the grave injuries you caused your partner.
Dr Thuli Whitehouse, 27, was given a 51-week prison sentence but it was suspended for two years by a judge who at her trial had called her a "golden young woman".
She was also banned from driving for four years and must do 150 hours' community work.
The Murrell family later issued a statement through Thames Valley Police which said: "We are very upset by the verdict reached today.
"We appreciate no sentence will bring back our son and father, but we feel the sentence is far too lenient and we will be appealing against the sentence."
Whitehouse had been found guilty by a jury of causing the death of motorcyclist Robert Murrell, of Southmoor, near Abingdon, in a crash on the A420 near Appleton in June last year.
Whitehouse turned left, the wrong way, out of the Appleton junction and drove for a short distance down the eastbound carriageway and into the path of Mr Murrell, 33. He was killed and the doctor's boyfriend, Dr Hugh Grant-Peterkin, critically injured.
During her trial, the jury heard that Mr Murrell, of Southmoor, near Abingdon, was travelling at speeds of between 87mph and 103mph and died instantly.
Judge David Morton Jack was told Whitehouse missed nine separate road markings and signs instructing her to turn left on to a dual carriageway.
Instead, the doctor drove straight across the A420, near Appleton, to reach a gap in the crash barriers to get to the opposite side of the road.
The jury heard from witnesses who saw her at the end of the side road on to the busy road, reverse and then go to the other side of a traffic island.
Whitehouse, of Upper Cheltenham Place, Bristol, told the jury that she must have been "confused" and would never drive dangerously.
The jury took less than an hour to find her guilty of causing death by dangerous driving.
Today, Judge Morton Jack again paid tribute to Whitehouse and her career as a doctor. He said he had received a number of tributes and he believed this was such an exceptional case that he could suspend her prison sentence.
He said she had a good driving record and no previous convictions of any sort.
"Your character and career are exceptional, indeed golden."
He added: "You have had to live with the knowledge and effect of the grave injuries you caused your partner.
Members of 'Outlaws Motorcycle Club' Indicted in Detroit on Violent Crime, Drug and Gun Charges
Arrests, Searches Part of Ongoing Nationwide Initiative Targeting the 'Outlaws'
WASHINGTON, Aug. 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Sixteen members of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club were indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury in Detroit on charges including violent crime in aid of racketeering, illegal drug distribution and gun violations, the Department of Justice announced today. The indictment, which was unsealed today, is part of an ongoing nationwide law enforcement initiative targeting the violent gang, which included the arrest of 15 Outlaws members in Boston last month on drug and firearms charges.
Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales announced the indictment of the 16 charged defendants today at a news conference in Detroit with U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Murphy of the Eastern District of Michigan, Deputy Director Ronnie Carter of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Deputy Assistant Director Daniel Roberts of the FBI's Criminal Investigative Division, and Gang Squad Chief Kevin Carwile of the Justice Department's Criminal Division.
Law enforcement authorities also initiated searches today in connection with the ongoing nationwide investigation of the Outlaws. Agents from the Detroit offices of the ATF, assisted by state and local law enforcement partners, executed a search warrant at the Outlaws Detroit Westside clubhouse. Searches were also conducted at several Outlaws locations in the state of Florida.
The Outlaws Motorcycle Club has been identified as an international criminal organization whose members and associates engage in acts of violence including murder, attempted murder, assault, narcotics distribution, and firearms and gambling offenses. The Outlaws are a structured and hierarchical gang, divided into multiple regions in the United States. The Outlaws also have members worldwide, including Europe, Asia and Canada. The Outlaws have a long-standing violent history with the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, including assaults/batteries, shootings and fatalities.
"One of our top priorities at the Department of Justice is easing the grip of fear that gang violence brings to some communities," said Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales. "We have worked to achieve that through a partnership with state and local authorities that targets violent gangs, including the Outlaws, city by city, neighborhood by neighborhood, until the threat of gang-related violence is reduced. Detroit is already seeing the results of these partnerships and our efforts against violent criminals, and this important initiative will
carry on to other communities as well."
The Detroit indictment was the result of "Operation Broken Spoke," "Operation Detroit Mugger," and "Operation End Game," a five-year investigation by the ATF, the FBI, the National Drug Intelligence Center (NDIC), Michigan State Police, the Detroit Police Department, the South Bend (Ind.) Police Department, and the Fort Wayne (Ind.) Police Department.
The 16 indicted leaders, members and gang associates of the Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Detroit Eastside, Detroit Westside, Downriver and Bay City Outlaws' chapters were charged with various crimes, including: violent crimes in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit violent crimes in aid of racketeering; distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, and hashish; being a felon in possession of a firearm; and sale of a firearm to a known felon. The Outlaws "Black Region" president, Leroy Frasier, who oversees the Michigan and Indiana Outlaws, was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The former Detroit Westside Chapter Sergeant of Arms/Enforcer, Edward Gallagher, was charged with selling a firearm to a known felon. Additionally, former Outlaw Westside Vice President William Merfert was charged as being in possession of a firearm following three prior felony convictions, a charge that carries a 15-year minimum mandatory term of imprisonment upon conviction.
In addition, the following Michigan and Indiana Outlaws leaders, members and gang associates were indicted: -- Norman Box Jr., aka "Stormin' Norman"
-- David Dorris, aka "Hoggs"
-- Danny Neance, aka "Milky"
-- Ramon Rios
-- Bruce Wendel, aka "Big Bruce"
-- William Elston, aka "Jason"
-- Robert Castillo, aka "Big Rob" and "Mexican Rob"
-- Michael Radke
-- William Guinn, aka "Slick"
-- Mark Guerra, aka "Skid Mark"
-- Kenneth Creslaw, aka "KC"
-- William Thomas McCowan, aka "Tom the Bomb"; and
-- Kim Galaviz, aka "Moe"
The 18-count indictment alleges that the Outlaws Motorcycle Club is an enterprise whose members allegedly committed, attempted, and threatened to commit acts of violence to protect and expand the gang's criminal operations. Several of the defendants were charged with allegedly assaulting various members of the rival Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, in some cases with dangerous weapons including a cane, a hammer, and motorcycle parts. Several defendants allegedly trafficked in the sale of drugs, including methamphetamine, marijuana, hashish and cocaine, while others were charged with various firearms offenses for either being a felon in possession of a handgun, or selling a firearm to a prohibited person.
The indictment contains a criminal forfeiture allegation, which sets forth property, vehicles, motorcycles, weapons and currency that was either used to conduct or facilitate illegal activities, or which were proceeds from the Outlaws' criminal activities.
"Today's indictment represents a significant step in the federal effort to dismantle the organized criminal enterprise allegedly operated by the Outlaws Motorcycle Club," said U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Murphy of the Eastern District of Michigan. "Any acts of violence and drug trafficking that are part of an organized criminal enterprise present a greater danger to society and must be addressed by the full weight of the federal government. I commend the excellent cooperation and hard work of the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies who conducted a careful and detailed investigation that led to the charges today."
"ATF is pleased to announce that its investigation of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club has removed firearms, including fully automatic machine guns, silencers, and illegal drugs from the streets of Detroit," said Ronnie Carter, ATF Deputy Director. "ATF stands with you as you seek to serve and protect your communities. Today we are reinforcing the message that we will not tolerate armed gang violence and the drug trade that fuels it. We are warning gang members that ATF and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners will pursue them and bring them to justice as we make our communities safer.."
"Dismantling violent gangs is one of the FBI's top priorities. This indictment is the direct result of joint efforts with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, and we will continue to work diligently with our colleagues to investigate and eradicate America's street gangs and the violence they perpetrate," said Deputy Assistant Director Daniel D. Roberts, FBI Criminal Investigative Division. "Together we are committed to restoring safety and security to our nation's neighborhoods."
The charges of violent crime in aid of racketeering carry maximum statutory sentences of up to 20 years in prison. The separate drug counts in the indictment carry various maximum statutory sentences, including up to 40 years in prison for distribution of cocaine and up to life in prison for the distribution of methamphetamine. Defendants also face various maximum sentences on the gun charges, such as a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison for possession of a firearm following three prior felony convictions.
The Detroit case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Diane Marion and Julie Beck of the Eastern District of Michigan, and Trial Attorney Amy Sirignano and Bryan Reeves of the Criminal Division's Gang Squad in Washington, D.C.
The Detroit case follows the arrest of 15 Outlaws members in Taunton, Mass. Thirteen individuals were charged by an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in the District of Massachusetts, while two were arrested on charges in a criminal complaint. "Operation Roadkill," announced by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Boston on July 31, 2007, was a two-year investigation by the FBI, the Massachusetts State Police, and the Brockton Police Department that resulted in federal charges including conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana. The indictment also charged the former president of the Taunton Outlaws with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The indictment alleges that Outlaws in Massachusetts engaged in violent criminal activities, including an ongoing war with the Hells Angels that resulted in a number of shootings and fatalities.
Eighteen firearms were recovered during the execution of arrest warrants in connection with the Massachusetts indictment, including an AR-15 assault weapon and high-capacity rounds of ammunition. Agents recovered approximately $100,000 in connection with the investigation and also seized numerous vehicles. The FBI executed a search warrant at the Outlaws clubhouse in Taunton and recovered numerous weapons including machetes and knives, along with Outlaws paraphernalia and a large Nazi flag.
In February 2006, Attorney General Gonzales unveiled an initiative to combat gang violence across the United States. The anti-gang strategy is designed to prioritize prevention programs to provide America's youth and offenders returning to the community with opportunities that help them resist gang involvement. The initiative also calls for robust enforcement policies when gang-related violence occurs, and expands the successful Project Safe Neighborhoods program to include new and enhanced anti-gang efforts. The law enforcement actions in Detroit, Massachusetts and Florida are the result of the Attorney General's anti-gang initiative and the joint strategic and priority targeting of violent street gangs by the ATF, the FBI, the National Gang Targeting, Enforcement and Coordination Center (GangTECC) and the National Gang Intelligence Center (NGIC) and state and local law enforcement. The Criminal Division's Gang Squad, a specialized group of federal prosecutors charged with attacking the most significant regional, national and international gangs in the United States, assisted in this case and in the implementation of the Justice Department's initiatives to combat gang violence across the country.
The public is reminded that the details contained within the indictment are simply allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice
CONTACT: U.S. Department of Justice, +1-202-514-2008
Web Site: http://www.usdoj.gov/
WASHINGTON, Aug. 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Sixteen members of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club were indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury in Detroit on charges including violent crime in aid of racketeering, illegal drug distribution and gun violations, the Department of Justice announced today. The indictment, which was unsealed today, is part of an ongoing nationwide law enforcement initiative targeting the violent gang, which included the arrest of 15 Outlaws members in Boston last month on drug and firearms charges.
Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales announced the indictment of the 16 charged defendants today at a news conference in Detroit with U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Murphy of the Eastern District of Michigan, Deputy Director Ronnie Carter of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Deputy Assistant Director Daniel Roberts of the FBI's Criminal Investigative Division, and Gang Squad Chief Kevin Carwile of the Justice Department's Criminal Division.
Law enforcement authorities also initiated searches today in connection with the ongoing nationwide investigation of the Outlaws. Agents from the Detroit offices of the ATF, assisted by state and local law enforcement partners, executed a search warrant at the Outlaws Detroit Westside clubhouse. Searches were also conducted at several Outlaws locations in the state of Florida.
The Outlaws Motorcycle Club has been identified as an international criminal organization whose members and associates engage in acts of violence including murder, attempted murder, assault, narcotics distribution, and firearms and gambling offenses. The Outlaws are a structured and hierarchical gang, divided into multiple regions in the United States. The Outlaws also have members worldwide, including Europe, Asia and Canada. The Outlaws have a long-standing violent history with the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, including assaults/batteries, shootings and fatalities.
"One of our top priorities at the Department of Justice is easing the grip of fear that gang violence brings to some communities," said Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales. "We have worked to achieve that through a partnership with state and local authorities that targets violent gangs, including the Outlaws, city by city, neighborhood by neighborhood, until the threat of gang-related violence is reduced. Detroit is already seeing the results of these partnerships and our efforts against violent criminals, and this important initiative will
carry on to other communities as well."
The Detroit indictment was the result of "Operation Broken Spoke," "Operation Detroit Mugger," and "Operation End Game," a five-year investigation by the ATF, the FBI, the National Drug Intelligence Center (NDIC), Michigan State Police, the Detroit Police Department, the South Bend (Ind.) Police Department, and the Fort Wayne (Ind.) Police Department.
The 16 indicted leaders, members and gang associates of the Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Detroit Eastside, Detroit Westside, Downriver and Bay City Outlaws' chapters were charged with various crimes, including: violent crimes in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit violent crimes in aid of racketeering; distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, and hashish; being a felon in possession of a firearm; and sale of a firearm to a known felon. The Outlaws "Black Region" president, Leroy Frasier, who oversees the Michigan and Indiana Outlaws, was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The former Detroit Westside Chapter Sergeant of Arms/Enforcer, Edward Gallagher, was charged with selling a firearm to a known felon. Additionally, former Outlaw Westside Vice President William Merfert was charged as being in possession of a firearm following three prior felony convictions, a charge that carries a 15-year minimum mandatory term of imprisonment upon conviction.
In addition, the following Michigan and Indiana Outlaws leaders, members and gang associates were indicted: -- Norman Box Jr., aka "Stormin' Norman"
-- David Dorris, aka "Hoggs"
-- Danny Neance, aka "Milky"
-- Ramon Rios
-- Bruce Wendel, aka "Big Bruce"
-- William Elston, aka "Jason"
-- Robert Castillo, aka "Big Rob" and "Mexican Rob"
-- Michael Radke
-- William Guinn, aka "Slick"
-- Mark Guerra, aka "Skid Mark"
-- Kenneth Creslaw, aka "KC"
-- William Thomas McCowan, aka "Tom the Bomb"; and
-- Kim Galaviz, aka "Moe"
The 18-count indictment alleges that the Outlaws Motorcycle Club is an enterprise whose members allegedly committed, attempted, and threatened to commit acts of violence to protect and expand the gang's criminal operations. Several of the defendants were charged with allegedly assaulting various members of the rival Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, in some cases with dangerous weapons including a cane, a hammer, and motorcycle parts. Several defendants allegedly trafficked in the sale of drugs, including methamphetamine, marijuana, hashish and cocaine, while others were charged with various firearms offenses for either being a felon in possession of a handgun, or selling a firearm to a prohibited person.
The indictment contains a criminal forfeiture allegation, which sets forth property, vehicles, motorcycles, weapons and currency that was either used to conduct or facilitate illegal activities, or which were proceeds from the Outlaws' criminal activities.
"Today's indictment represents a significant step in the federal effort to dismantle the organized criminal enterprise allegedly operated by the Outlaws Motorcycle Club," said U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Murphy of the Eastern District of Michigan. "Any acts of violence and drug trafficking that are part of an organized criminal enterprise present a greater danger to society and must be addressed by the full weight of the federal government. I commend the excellent cooperation and hard work of the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies who conducted a careful and detailed investigation that led to the charges today."
"ATF is pleased to announce that its investigation of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club has removed firearms, including fully automatic machine guns, silencers, and illegal drugs from the streets of Detroit," said Ronnie Carter, ATF Deputy Director. "ATF stands with you as you seek to serve and protect your communities. Today we are reinforcing the message that we will not tolerate armed gang violence and the drug trade that fuels it. We are warning gang members that ATF and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners will pursue them and bring them to justice as we make our communities safer.."
"Dismantling violent gangs is one of the FBI's top priorities. This indictment is the direct result of joint efforts with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, and we will continue to work diligently with our colleagues to investigate and eradicate America's street gangs and the violence they perpetrate," said Deputy Assistant Director Daniel D. Roberts, FBI Criminal Investigative Division. "Together we are committed to restoring safety and security to our nation's neighborhoods."
The charges of violent crime in aid of racketeering carry maximum statutory sentences of up to 20 years in prison. The separate drug counts in the indictment carry various maximum statutory sentences, including up to 40 years in prison for distribution of cocaine and up to life in prison for the distribution of methamphetamine. Defendants also face various maximum sentences on the gun charges, such as a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison for possession of a firearm following three prior felony convictions.
The Detroit case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Diane Marion and Julie Beck of the Eastern District of Michigan, and Trial Attorney Amy Sirignano and Bryan Reeves of the Criminal Division's Gang Squad in Washington, D.C.
The Detroit case follows the arrest of 15 Outlaws members in Taunton, Mass. Thirteen individuals were charged by an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in the District of Massachusetts, while two were arrested on charges in a criminal complaint. "Operation Roadkill," announced by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Boston on July 31, 2007, was a two-year investigation by the FBI, the Massachusetts State Police, and the Brockton Police Department that resulted in federal charges including conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana. The indictment also charged the former president of the Taunton Outlaws with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The indictment alleges that Outlaws in Massachusetts engaged in violent criminal activities, including an ongoing war with the Hells Angels that resulted in a number of shootings and fatalities.
Eighteen firearms were recovered during the execution of arrest warrants in connection with the Massachusetts indictment, including an AR-15 assault weapon and high-capacity rounds of ammunition. Agents recovered approximately $100,000 in connection with the investigation and also seized numerous vehicles. The FBI executed a search warrant at the Outlaws clubhouse in Taunton and recovered numerous weapons including machetes and knives, along with Outlaws paraphernalia and a large Nazi flag.
In February 2006, Attorney General Gonzales unveiled an initiative to combat gang violence across the United States. The anti-gang strategy is designed to prioritize prevention programs to provide America's youth and offenders returning to the community with opportunities that help them resist gang involvement. The initiative also calls for robust enforcement policies when gang-related violence occurs, and expands the successful Project Safe Neighborhoods program to include new and enhanced anti-gang efforts. The law enforcement actions in Detroit, Massachusetts and Florida are the result of the Attorney General's anti-gang initiative and the joint strategic and priority targeting of violent street gangs by the ATF, the FBI, the National Gang Targeting, Enforcement and Coordination Center (GangTECC) and the National Gang Intelligence Center (NGIC) and state and local law enforcement. The Criminal Division's Gang Squad, a specialized group of federal prosecutors charged with attacking the most significant regional, national and international gangs in the United States, assisted in this case and in the implementation of the Justice Department's initiatives to combat gang violence across the country.
The public is reminded that the details contained within the indictment are simply allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice
CONTACT: U.S. Department of Justice, +1-202-514-2008
Web Site: http://www.usdoj.gov/
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Knievel Custom Cycles Announces Strategic Alliance with Hardbikes
Hermitage, PA, July 27, 2007 --(PR.com)-- Knievel Custom Cycles, LLC and Hardbikes, LLC announced today that a strategic alliance has been entered into between the two companies. Under this agreement Hardbikes will become the exclusive motorcycle manufacturer for the Knievel Cycles brand. Knievel Custom Cycles, which started operations in 2005 currently produces one-off customs at a facility in Northern New Jersey. Knievel Custom Cycles was originally created by Kaptain Robbie Knievel and a few close friends. Robbie, a motorcycle daredevil who started performing at age 8 presently holds 20 world records and is awaiting induction into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame on August 7, 2007 in Sturgis S.D. In early 2007, Knievel Cycles welcomed the participation of Robbie’s father Evel Knievel who is the original motorcycle daredevil. Evel Knievel has been a household name since the late 1960s and his feats were so famous that four of the 20 most-watched Wide-World of Sports events are his performances with one being the largest draw ever. As a pioneer in the dare devil industry, Evel was enshrined in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC.
Hardbikes with its team of motorcycle and manufacturing veterans will build every custom motorcycle to a customer’s specification. Hardbikes and their engineering prowess won the 2006 ironworks Award for the design and use of the Hardbikes Design Centers which permits the customer to custom fit their motorcycle to the customer’s body size and riding style. This process produces the perfect fit for the customer. With its facilities located in Western Pennsylvania, Hardbikes currently has the capability to produce in excess of 100 custom motorcycles a month for Knievel Custom Cycles.
“The intent of Knievel Cycles is to produce the best American Made custom motorcycle for the money. Top quality parts and accessories with consistent reliability”—Evel Knievel. Knievel Custom Cycles has commenced the process of creating a dealer network throughout the United States and welcomes any interested party to inquire @ www.knievelcustomcycles.com.
For more information contact:Bart McConleybart@knievelcustomcycles.comTelephone: 973-663-6700
Hardbikes with its team of motorcycle and manufacturing veterans will build every custom motorcycle to a customer’s specification. Hardbikes and their engineering prowess won the 2006 ironworks Award for the design and use of the Hardbikes Design Centers which permits the customer to custom fit their motorcycle to the customer’s body size and riding style. This process produces the perfect fit for the customer. With its facilities located in Western Pennsylvania, Hardbikes currently has the capability to produce in excess of 100 custom motorcycles a month for Knievel Custom Cycles.
“The intent of Knievel Cycles is to produce the best American Made custom motorcycle for the money. Top quality parts and accessories with consistent reliability”—Evel Knievel. Knievel Custom Cycles has commenced the process of creating a dealer network throughout the United States and welcomes any interested party to inquire @ www.knievelcustomcycles.com.
For more information contact:Bart McConleybart@knievelcustomcycles.comTelephone: 973-663-6700
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