Author: terry.katz

No doubt’ affluent gang boss receiving dodgy cash – but judge clears him of million-dollar drug charges

Brett Kerr-Laurie| The Press July 16, 2026
https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/361007238/no-doubt-affluent-gang-boss-receiving-dodgy-cash-judge-clears-him-million-dollar-drug-charges

A judge is sure an affluent gang boss was receiving illegitimate funds, but it is not enough to prove he was involved in a multimillion-dollar drug syndicate.

Justice Rachel Dunningham found Comanchero Motorcycle Club national commander Vetekina Naufahu not guilty on 25 serious organised crime and drug supply charges at the High Court at Christchurch on Thursday.

It followed a two-week judge-alone trial commencing in mid-June, in which Crown prosecutors Abbie Hollingworth and Claire Boshier argued the gang and a national, multimillion-dollar drug enterprise were one and the same.

Police cracked the network in late August 2024 following a major operation, arresting the entire Christchurch Comanchero chapter and seizing millions of dollars of cash, jewellery and drugs.

Seventeen of the 21 people arrested have since been convicted, including the South Island commander, Christchurch treasurer, two young underlings, a pair of identical twins, a barber-turned-drug runner, and another drug transporter
.
During the trial Hollingworth and Boshier alleged Naufahu and three Comanchero associates or nominees – Petelo Sili, Wiremukingi Matakatea and Richard John Dodd – were all involved in the criminal group, which flew more than 30kg of methamphetamine and cocaine from low-security North Island airports to Christchurch in 2024.

Naufahu was charged with being a party to 23 successful or attempted drug trips based on his senior position in the gang, direct dealings with the Christchurch chapter and his “inexplicable affluent lifestyle”.

But Justice Dunningham found Naufahu guilty only of possessing 6.6g of cocaine for supply at his lavishly furnished $1050 weekly rental in Orewa, Auckland, where he kept designer clothes, a champagne collection, five vehicles, and two cash counters.

The judge Justice Dunningham said there was “no doubt” Naufahu was receiving more than his legitimate income – a government benefit – but his spending patterns extended well before the alleged offending and before he became the gang’s national commander.

“While I am sure he was benefiting from funds which were not sourced legitimately … it does not assist me to conclude with certainty that Mr Naufahu both knew of and directed the drug dealing operation,” she said.

The judge found other actions that allegedly implicated Naufahu in the enterprise were too generic. This included visiting and disciplining the Christchurch chapter, which his lawyer Ron Mansfield, KC, argued was simply consistent with his seniority.

Naufahu is a founding member of the New Zealand Comancheros and the brother of its president, Pasilika Naufahu, who recently told a judge he planned to step away from the gang.

The trial heard expert evidence about the gang’s hierarchical nature, including that senior members insulated themselves from criminal offending conducted by junior members.

Mansfield specifically cautioned Justice Dunningham about giving too much weight to this evidence and argued the expert giving the evidence did not know exactly what Naufahu’s role entailed.

While the national commander largely escaped conviction, Sili, Matakatea and Dodd were all found guilty of participating in the organised criminal

Sili was further found guilty of possessing and offering to supply a Class A drug, while Dodd was found guilty of a singular and representative charge of supplying Class A drugs.

The defendants were scheduled for sentencing in October.
-The Press

Detroit man charged in connection with deadly shooting at motorcycle club
By Joseph Buczek
July 16, 2026 / 9:00 PM EDT / CBS Detroit

A Detroit man is charged in connection with a fatal shooting at a motorcycle club in March, prosecutors said.

Samuel Spencer Tipton Jr. was arraigned Wednesday on one count of first-degree murder, one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and two counts of felony firearm in the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Darrell Moore of Detroit.

On March 1, around 3 a.m., Wayne County prosecutors say Detroit police responded to a club in the 7100 block of Warren Avenue for a shooting. When police arrived, they found Moore inside the club, suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck. Moore later died at the scene.
Prosecutors allege Tipton approached Moore and fired a handgun before leaving the scene.

Titpton was later arrested by Detroit police on July 6.

Man ‘critical,’ 8 people arrested after shooting at Cadillac Ranch biker night in Southington

By Christine Dempsey, Peter Yankowski, Bruno Matarazzo Jr., Staff WritersJuly 16, 2026 .
https://www.ctinsider.com/recordjournal/article/southington-cadillac-ranch-shooting-biker-night-22347416.php

SOUTHINGTON — A man remains in critical condition after a shooting Wednesday evening at the Cadillac Ranch restaurant in Southington, and eight people also were arrested, police say.

A 44-year-old man also was injured, police Lt. Matthew Hammell said Thursday; both he and the 25-year-old who was shot are expected to survive.

Police recovered a gun from the scene, Hammell said.
A preliminary investigation shows the shooting happened after a fight broke out in the parking lot, he said, and “the altercation continued until officers arrived.”
Police were called to the business, which also is a banquet hall and bar, around 7 p.m. on a report of a shooting and found a man with a gunshot wound to the torso. He was taken to the hospital, where he remains in critical condition, Hammell said. Officers also found the second injured man, he said; he, too, was hospitalized and is listed in stable condition.

“Officers arrived to find a very congested crowd throughout the parking lot and inside the establishment, consisting of motorcycle enthusiasts as well as members of several motorcycle clubs,” Hammell said. “Investigators determined that four individuals acted together in assaulting a 44-year-old male during the incident,” he said.

The venue was hosting a charity bike night at the time of the shooting, according to an event listing on its website. Hammell said the “Bike Night” is a regular event at Cadillac Ranch, which sits next to Interstate 84. The events benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, according to the restaurant’s website; Yankee Harley-Davidson is listed as a sponsor.

Southington police said they activated their “Blue Plan,” which is a coordinated law enforcement response by nearby agencies, because of the number of people involved.

Four people are charged with second-degree assault, a felony: James McDermott, 52, of Waterbury; Gerard McAfee, 54, of Branford; Philip Gugliotti, 55, of Waterbury; and Harley Woodbury, 31, of the Terryville section of Plymouth.

The four were arraigned Thursday at state Superior Court in New Britain and a judge set their bonds at $50,000 cash or surety each.
Deputy Chief State’s Attorney Eamon Donovan asked that their bonds be set at $150,000 due to “serious safety concerns.”
“These are disturbing allegations,” Donovan said.

Each was told not to have any contact with the alleged victims and to stay away from the Cadillac Ranch.

Four others were charged with a less-serious crime, interfering with an officer. They are: Kevin Lawlor, 48, of Derby; William Schneiter, 60, of the Baltic section of Sprague; Marc Debenigno, 49, of Waterbury; and Zarif Ramadanov, 46, of Bethany.

Each was taken to the Bristol Police Department, where officers confirmed their names and released them on bonds. They are due in court July 29.
It’s not clear whether police arrested the person they believe shot the 25-year-old.

The street outside Cadillac Ranch was clogged with emergency vehicles after the shooting, and crowds of people had gathered in the bar’s large parking lot, part of which was cordoned off with crime scene tape, WFSB video shows.

At least one person at the scene wore a vest that read, “Ruthless 4 Life Connecticut MC,” which, in 2022, state police referred to as a motorcycle gang. Meanwhile, two of the four men charged with interfering wore vests that indicated they are members of the Diablos Motorcycle Club.

Some motorcycles remained at the scene early Thursday, and red Solo cups littered the lot, the station reported.

Connecticut State Police were among agencies at the scene, and are assisting with the investigation, Southington police said. Local police said they would like to thank the troopers and police from Bristol, Plainville, Farmington, New Britain, and Berlin “for their rapid response and assistance in providing mutual aid during this incident.” Hammell said. “Their professionalism and support were instrumental in helping officers quickly secure the scene and safely manage a large and dynamic incident.”

The investigation remains active, he said.

Anyone who witnessed the fight, has video footage, or information that may help investigators is asked to call a detective at 860-378-1642 or 860-378 1646. Those wishing to remain anonymous may do so.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Billings Fire Department investigating possible arson at motorcycle club

https://www.ktvq.com/news/billings-fire-department-investigating-possible-arson-at-motorcycle-club
By: MTN News
Posted 9:13 PM, Jul 12, 2026

BILLINGS — The Billings Fire Department and Billings Police Department are investigating an early Sunday morning fire at the Galloping Goose Clubhouse on North 34th Street as a possible act of arson.

The fire broke out around 2:30 a.m. on the outside of the building. Flames began on pallets on the west side of the building before spreading to the exterior and the roof.

No interior damage was found and no one was injured.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

Hells Angels, other outlaw motorcycle clubs expected for ‘Canada-wide’ gathering in Windsor: police

By Pascal Hogue Windsor Star July 14, 2026
https://windsorstar.com/news/local-news/hells-angels-other-outlaw-motorcycle-clubs-expected-for-canada-wide-gathering-in-windsor-police

Members of the Hell’s Angels and their associates are seen outside a gathering by the biker organization in Amherstburg on July 16th, 2011.

Windsor police are advising the public of a planned “Canada-wide get-together” of outlaw motorcycle gang members and associates in Windsor-Essex this week, but note there is no current concern for public safety.

The event scheduled for July 16 to July 19 is expected to attract more than 750 people linked to the Hells Angels and other outlaw motorcycle gangs from across Ontario and Canada, police said.

The community can expect an increased police presence during this time as officers monitor activities and respond to public safety concerns, Windsor Police Chief Jason Crowley told reporters Monday.

“Right now, there’s no public safety concern,” Crowley said. “There’s no intelligence that there’s going to be any issues. And typically, the members of these groups, they keep to themselves and they really don’t want any trouble either.”

The Windsor Police Service is partnering with the Ontario Provincial Police and the OPP-led Biker Enforcement Unit (BEU) to monitor the event. Crowley said residents can expect some additional traffic and hold ups over the four-day period, as well as an increased presence of motorcycle members.

Windsor Police Chief Jason Crowley speaks to reporters at Windsor Police Headquarters in downtown Windsor on Monday, July 13, 2026.

After an initial media release on Monday morning by Windsor police drew strong reactions on social media, Windsor police shared a follow-up media release to clarify that the gathering is not associated with charitable organizations such as Hogs for Hospice, which is scheduled to have its own gathering from July 31 to August 2

“The gathering that police will monitor involves members and associates of outlaw motorcycle gangs, including the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club and other affiliated groups,” police said.

“The Hells Angels have been long recognized as a criminal organization by the Supreme Court of Canada,” police said. “This designation is based on evidence presented in criminal cases involving the organization.”

Police said it “respects the many law-abiding motorcycle enthusiasts and community organizations that host legitimate events throughout Windsor and Essex County.”

“Our focus remains on public safety and addressing criminal activity wherever it occurs,” police said.

Crowley said the gathering of outlaw motorcycle members will likely be one of the biggest ever organized in Windsor.

Crowley said that while some outlaw groups have historical links to organized crime, gatherings of members – as is expected across Windsor – is not illegal.

“We let them gather, we let them go to restaurants,” Crowley said. “There’s no authority to stop that. The businesses wouldn’t want that. They’re paying customers just like everybody else.”

Police are encouraging drivers to plan ahead, use caution, and follow posted signage and directions from officers.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious, dangerous, or criminal activity is asked to contact the Windsor Police Service’s non-emergency line at 519-258-6111. In an emergency, call 911.

Killer outlaw biker who murdered 8 Bandido clubmates dies in Ontario prison

Eight members of the Toronto chapter called “The No Surrender Crew” were murdered on the night of April 7 and 8th, 2006 near Shedden.

By Peter Edwards Staff Reporter Toronto Starr July 2, 2026
https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/biker-convicted-of-taking-part-in-murder-of-eight-bandido-clubmates-outside-london-ontario-dies-in-prison/article_c119b0a9-0db1-4448-a413-fda854f5ad55.html

An outlaw biker convicted of helping murder eight Toronto-area clubmates in the largest mass murder in modern Ontario history has died in custody of apparent natural causes.

Marcelo (Bull) Aravena, 50, was serving a life sentence when he died on Monday in Bath Institution, a medium-security prison outside Kingston.

His sentence began on Oct. 30, 2009, after he was convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder and one of manslaughter for taking part in the 2006 murders of eight fellow Bandido bikers from the GTA in a barn near Shedden, Ontario, a hamlet outside of London.

The Correctional Service Canada (CSC) will conduct a routine review of his death and notify the coroner, Corrections Canada said in a prepared statement.

A 280-pound mixed martial arts fighter based in Winnipeg, Aravena was a member of the Bandidos, a Texas-based bike gang that had two chapters in Canada, one in Winnipeg and the other in Toronto.

Court heard that longtime outlaw biker Wayne (Weiner) Kellestine had become convinced that he could seize control of the U.S.-based biker gang’s Canadian operation — and a lucrative trade in methamphetamine — if he wiped out most of his fellow Toronto-area members and then pinned the killings on the Hells Angels.

Eight members of the Toronto chapter called “The No Surrender Crew” were murdered on the night of April 7 and 8th, 2006 in Kellestine’s ramshackle barn. Their bodies were stuffed into vehicles in Elgin County in Southwestern Ontario.

Aravena and five other men were tried and convicted in the bike-gang executions.

He chose to make a statement to the families of the victims prior to his sentencing and expressed remorse. “I truly am sorry for what I’ve put you through,” Aravena said. “I know that nothing I can say will bring your loved ones back, but I did not know this was going to happen.”

Aravena then erupted in anger when he heard the guilty verdict.

He spat on his lawyer, Tony Bryant, and shouted obscenities at the jury from the prisoners’ dock after hearing he had been convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder and another of manslaughter for the massacre of the bikers in tiny Iona Station, west of London.
“F -ing goofs,” Aravena shouted, making obscene gestures with both hands.

“You know that some of us are innocent,” Aravena shouted.

A conviction for first-degree murder brings a mandatory life term with no parole eligibility for 25 years.

The jury in the seven-month trial heard that Aravena didn’t fire any shots in the massacre, but the Crown argued he was still a key part of the crime by acting as a guard who helped confine the doomed bikers.

The trial heard that Aravena feared he was about to be murdered himself that night.

M.H., a Bandido biker who cooperated with authorities after the murders, told court that Aravena was often the butt of jokes inside the Bandidos Motorcycle Club and often had to fetch water, cook pizzas, wash dishes and do chores for more senior members.

M.H., who disappeared into a witness protection program after the trial, was present on the night of the murders. He and Bryant sparred over Aravena’s exact status in the club at the time of the killings.

In the end, M.H. said, it didn’t really matter. “That night we were all Bandidos,” he told court.

M.H. dismissed a suggestion by Bryant that Aravena “came within a whisper” of being the ninth murder victim that night.

“I didn’t see anybody put a gun to his head,” M.H. said of Aravena. “I didn’t see anybody threaten him, if that’s what you mean.”
Bryant noted that Aravena didn’t even own a motorcycle or have a licence to ride one.

Operation Texas Dismantles And Takes Down Outlaw Motorcycle Club

Insane Throttle News 7-1-2026 Hamilton, New Zealand – In a significant victory against organised crime, Waikato police have dismantled key elements of the Comanchero Motorcycle Club’s operations in the region, seizing millions in assets, substantial quantities of drugs and firearms, and arresting 24 individuals linked to multiple gangs. Operation Texas, which began in early 2025,…

Insane Throttle July 1, 2026

Operation Texas Dismantles And Takes Down Outlaw Motorcycle Club

Hamilton, New Zealand – In a significant victory against organised crime, Waikato police have dismantled key elements of the Comanchero Motorcycle Club’s operations in the region, seizing millions in assets, substantial quantities of drugs and firearms, and arresting 24 individuals linked to multiple gangs.

Operation Texas, which began in early 2025, was initially launched to investigate a widespread drug issue tied to the Waikato chapter of the Comancheros. What started as a targeted probe evolved into a multi-phase, year-long effort spanning Waikato and Auckland, culminating in coordinated enforcement actions between March and June 2026. The operation has been praised by authorities as a major blow to the gang’s criminal activities.

Detective Inspector Albie Alexander, who played a key role in the investigation, confirmed that the first arrest was made in July 2025. Subsequent phases involved executing 42 search warrants across various locations. The operation resulted in the arrest of 24 people aged between 22 and 49, many of whom are now progressing through various stages of the court process.

Among those arrested were patched members of the Comanchero MC, four nominees, and six associates, along with patched members from the Mongols MC and the Mongrel Mob. The charges are serious and wide-ranging, including importation of methamphetamine and pseudoephedrine, possession and possession for supply of cocaine and methamphetamine, money laundering, possession of firearms, and participating in an organised criminal group.

Police seized 2.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, 500 grams of cocaine, and over $100,000 in cash during the raids. Firearms recovered included two shotguns, four rifles, and a sawn-off .22 calibre rifle. In a related border component involving Customs, officers intercepted a staggering 134 kilograms of pseudoephedrine, a key precursor chemical used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

Beyond the immediate seizures of contraband, authorities have restrained assets suspected to be proceeds of crime under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009. These include two residential dwellings, motor vehicles, and a motorcycle, with a total estimated value of $1.95 million. Acting Waikato crime manager Detective Inspector Stephen Ambler noted that the removal of these drugs could have prevented up to $2.8 million worth of social harm in the community.

“This operation demonstrates our commitment to targeting those who profit from the misery caused by illicit drugs,” Detective Inspector Alexander stated. “We will continue to take every opportunity to prevent harm and intimidation caused by gangs, and to disrupt their ability to illegally accumulate wealth.”

The Comancheros, an outlaw motorcycle gang with roots in Australia, have been a focus of law enforcement attention in New Zealand for several years. This latest action builds on broader regional efforts, including Taskforce Morpheus, a collaborative initiative involving police agencies across Australia and New Zealand aimed at disrupting the gang’s cross-border criminal networks. Previous operations have similarly targeted firearms, drugs, and money laundering activities associated with the group.

Local communities in Waikato and surrounding areas have long expressed concerns about the impact of gang-related drug dealing, violence, and intimidation. The success of Operation Texas is seen as a positive step toward reclaiming safety in neighbourhoods affected by these activities. By removing significant quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine from circulation, police believe they have mitigated risks of addiction, overdose, and associated crime.

Experts in organised crime note that such operations are crucial not only for immediate disruptions but also for long-term intelligence gathering. The involvement of multiple agencies, including Customs and specialists in financial investigations, highlights the sophisticated, multi-faceted approach now required to combat modern gang operations, which often blend traditional motorcycle club structures with sophisticated import and distribution networks.

Police are urging anyone with information about the importation, distribution, or sale of illicit drugs and firearms to come forward.

Reports can be made to police via 105, online, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers. “Every piece of information helps us build stronger cases and keep our communities safer,” authorities emphasised.

This crackdown comes at a time when New Zealand continues to grapple with the challenges posed by transnational organised crime groups. The Comancheros and similar gangs have been linked to high-profile incidents involving drugs, weapons, and territorial disputes. Operations like Texas send a clear message that law enforcement is intensifying its efforts to hold accountable those who choose a path of criminal enterprise over lawful contribution to society.

As the arrested individuals navigate the court system, the full extent of the operation’s impact will become clearer. For now, Waikato police and the broader New Zealand Police force are celebrating what they describe as a successful disruption of a significant criminal network. The restrained assets, if forfeited, could further bolster efforts to fund community initiatives aimed at prevention and rehabilitation.

In the words of Detective Inspector Alexander, the fight against gangs is ongoing: “We will not rest until the harm they cause is minimised and those responsible are brought to justice.”

This operation underscores the dedication of New Zealand’s law enforcement agencies in protecting public safety and combating the scourge of organised crime. Communities in Waikato and beyond will be watching closely as the legal processes unfold, hopeful for continued progress in making their regions safer and more secure.

Pensacola Outlaws Motorcycle Club member gets 7 years for using explosive in fight

Gregory Simonds, a member of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club, set off an explosive that damaged a Jimmy John’s during a fight with Pagans Motorcycle Club members.

Benjamin Johnson Pensacola News Journal July 1, 2026,
https://www.pnj.com/story/news/crime/2026/07/01/pensacola-outlaws-motorcycle-club-member-sent-to-federal-prison/90768968007/

A Pensacola member of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison after he previously pleaded guilty to arson.

Gregory Simonds was sentenced Tuesday to seven years in prison followed by five years of supervised release, according to federal court records, after he set off an explosive that damaged a Fort Walton Beach Jimmy John’s in 2025.

U.S. District Judge M. Casey Rodgers also ordered Simonds to undergo cognitive behavioral therapy once he begins his supervised release.

On Feb. 15, 2025, Simonds got into a fight with members associated with the Pagans Motorcycle Club in the parking lot of Emerald Coast Harley Davidson in Fort Walton Beach.

The blast damaged the nearby Jimmy John’s and injured one of its employees.

After law enforcement pulled Simonds over when he fled the scene, they recovered four explosive devices, two guns, narcotics and drug paraphernalia, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

During a search of his residence, federal agents seized additional explosive devices and explosive making material and equipment.

Simonds was remanded into Federal Bureau of Prisons custody following his sentence and will receive credit for time served since Feb. 15, 2025.

Three men arrested in connection to biker gang-related shooting in Grottoes

The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting in Grottoes that injured one man, sending him to the hospital Sunday night.

By Michael RussoWHSV ublished: Jun. 29, 2026
https://www.whsv.com/2026/06/29/two-men-arrested-another-wanted-connection-biker-gang-related-shooting-grottoes/?outputType=amp

GROTTOES, Va. (WHSV) – Three men have been arrested and charged on multiple offenses in connection to a shooting tied to biker gang activity in Grottoes on June 21, according to a release from Rockingham County Sheriff Bryan Hutcheson.

The shooting resulted in one man, Raymond Nowlin, 44, of Charlottesville, being injured as his vehicle was being shot at. Nowlin was taken to UVA Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

U.S. Marshals and the Staunton Police Department arrested Kenneth Robertson, 49, of Staunton on the charges of criminal gang participation, malicious wounding by mob, and conspiracy. Robertson is being held without bond at Middle River Regional Jail.

U..S. Marshals and the Staunton Police Department arrested Kenneth Robertson, 49, of Staunton on the charges of criminal gang participation, malicious wounding by mob, and conspiracy. Robertson is being held without bond at Middle River Regional Jail.(Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office)

Virginia State Police arrested Michael Bosserman, 30, of Waynesboro on the same charges of criKavon L. Robertson, 26, of Staunton was initially still wanted Monday morning on multiple outstanding warrants. As of 2:25 p.m. Monday, Hutcheson said Robertson was arrested by U.S.

As of 2:25 p.m. Monday, Hutcheson said Robertson was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Augusta County.
Kavon L. Robertson, 26, of Staunton was initially still wanted Monday morning on multiple outstanding warrants. As of 2:25 p.m. Monday,

Hutcheson said Robertson was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Augusta County. Kavon Robertson was charged with the following offenses:
• Malicious wounding by mob
• Criminal gang participation
• Conspiracy
• Maliciously shoot with intent to maim, disfigure, disable or kill

Status of Hells Angels an issue in assault trial

The assault and robbery with Hells Angels was a “wake-up call” for Daniel Fish.

https://www.thespec.com/news/crime/daniel-fish-biker-assault-sentencing-hearing/article_fef295c0-1bda-54c5-b8b4-ecde7e14f44a.html
By Nicole O’Reilly Reporter Hamilton Spectator June 27, 2026

Participating in an assault and robbery with a group of Hells Angels at a Hamilton bar was a “wake-up call” for Daniel Fish, his lawyer says.

So much so that the now 38-year-old has negotiated the terms of his resignation from the Red Devils Motorcycle Club — a support club of Hells Angels, defence lawyer Kim Edward said during his sentencing hearing Friday. Fish was a 10-year, full-patch member.

But the very fact that he cannot just leave, that he has to negotiate his resignation is “in a roundabout way evidence” that Hells Angels Motorcycle Club is a criminal organization, said assistant Crown attorney Sean Doherty.

The Crown is calling on Ontario Court Justice Amanda Camara to take judicial noticethat the bikers were acting for a criminal organization and to consider that as an aggravating factor in sentencing. He is also asking the court to consider the assault akin to aggravated assault, noting that a jail or penitentiary sentence is needed.

Fish was among five men convicted by Camara of assault cause bodily harm and robbery for the July 4, 2024 incident at Cadillac Jax bar and grill. The other four, who have separate ongoing sentencing hearings, were identified in court as Hells Angels Hamilton members.

Court heard the incident happened over a span of about three-and-half minutes. The victim, Daniel Scherer — wearing a probationary Rock Machine Motorcycle Club vest — was on the busy patio around 7 p.m. when 16 motorcycles pulled into the neighbouring parking lot of a convenience store. Many wore colours for Hells Angels and Red Devils.

Scherer was punched upwards of 10 times and his vest was stolen. Court found he was seriously injured, including being briefly unconscious, and blood was seen dripping from his forehead in surveillance video.

“Mr. Scherer wasn’t just beaten, he was humiliated,” Doherty said, adding that he could not escape.

When the group arrived, David Robson, who was then the president of the Rock Machine’s Guelph chapter, hid his vest behind the bar. Another man wearing a Vendettas motorcycle club vest did the same after the assault began. After the assault, some of the bikers — including Fish — swept the bar before everyone left.

Fish did not throw any of the punches, but pulled Scherer to the ground. All five men were found guilty for being co-conspirators.
Scherer never testified in court because he died Sept. 23, 2025 at 67, before the trial.

Doherty described the Hells Angels as a paramilitary organization, where members are expected to carry out orders. In this case he argued that the assault was premeditated and it was clear everyone knew what was expected of them. He described their actions as a “blitz.”

The Crown wants Fish sentenced to five years, or four years if the court does not take judicial notice that they committed the offences in association with a criminal organization.

There is ample case law finding Hells Angels is a criminal organization, but the Crown did not call any expert evidence during the trial. Nor did the Crown call any expert medical evidence about the severity of injury, Edward noted.

“To catapult them into a penitentiary sentence screams out for some evidentiary link that this is a criminal organization,” she said. “It would have been easy to call such evidence.”

Similarly she said if there was evidence this was an aggravated assault they should have been charged and tried on that charge.
Edward asked for a conditional sentence, including house arrest, followed by probation.

Fish, who is from Brantford, does not have a criminal record and has worked as a plumber for many years. The defence included numerous letters of support from businesses he has worked with, community supporters and family, who largely express surprise that Fish would be involved in such crimes.

Court heard Fish, who is an only child, is the primary caregiver for his 84-year-old father, including taking him to medical appointments, grocery shopping, finances and cleaning his house. His mother died after a protracted battle with Parkinson’s.

With uncertainty around whether he may go to prison, Fish asked for time to arrange care for his father and sell his home.

When given the chance to speak, Fish said he has been really focused and disciplined on his own personal well-being.

Court heard this included seeking therapy and an eagerness to improve himself, his lawyer said.

Fish returns to court July 31 along with three of his co-accused.

Nicole O’Reilly is a reporter at The Hamilton Spectator. noreilly@thespec.com