SAN DIEGO, CA – A Hells Angels gang leader, Troy Scholder, and 16 other members faced a court in California on charges stemming from a brutal attack on three individuals. The incident, described as racially motivated, resulted in severe injuries, including a stab wound to one victim’s chest.
The group was indicted following the altercation that occurred earlier this year, leaving one man unconscious and another severely injured. The victims, in their early twenties, narrowly escaped with their lives. Charges against the defendants include attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon.
San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan emphasized the county’s firm stance against violence and racism, commending the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement in apprehending the accused. A significant break in the case came when, after six days of testimony, the grand jury indicted 14 bikers on September 13 with additional hate crime allegations for 11 defendants.
The incident led to an extensive investigation by the San Diego Police Department and the District Attorney’s Gang Unit. San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit condemned the attacks and pledged full accountability for the perpetrators.
Following the arrests on September 21, authorities confiscated an array of illegal firearms and narcotics. If convicted, the defendants could face a wide range of sentences, with the possibility of life in prison for some. The trial is scheduled to commence on November 14.
District Attorney Stephan relayed to KSWB-TV the severity of the attack and the chilling environment it fostered, where bystanders were too frightened to intervene. The case continues to resonate as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating gang violence and hate crimes.