Operation Halo: 16 Hell’s Angels & Red Devils Indicted for Racketeering, Murder, Assault in NC

RALEIGH, NC — In a major federal crackdown, sixteen members of the Hell’s Angels and Red Devils motorcycle gangs are facing charges after an eight-count indictment tied to a series of violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and witness tampering, all part of a larger racketeering conspiracy.

The arrests are part of “Operation Halo,” a federal investigation that began in January 2023 following the murder of Jonas Padia, a member of the Pagan Motorcycle Club. This is North Carolina’s first major racketeering case since a 2017 indictment against members of the Bloods street gang.

U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Michael Easley, stated that members of the Hell’s Angels and Red Devils conspired to provoke violence in Raleigh and Fayetteville, aiming to strengthen their standing within the outlaw biker community. While most motorcycle clubs abide by the law, Easley noted, the Hell’s Angels embrace the “one percenter” label, distinguishing themselves as outlaws.

The investigation revealed a longstanding feud between the Hell’s Angels, Red Devils, and the Pagan Motorcycle Club. According to Easley, there was a “green light order” directing gang members to attack and harm Pagans on sight, with internal repercussions for non-compliance.

Those charged with murder in aid of racketeering and firearm discharge resulting in death include Vidaul Rashaad Reed (“Hootie”), Anthony Edward Cheever (“Rowdy”), David William Stephens (“007”), Martinus Jermaine Starks (“Tee”), and Tyler Scott Grissom (“Snow”), all members of the Red Devils. They face mandatory life sentences if convicted of Padia’s murder.

Christopher Dylan Manor and Robert Scott Brown are charged as accessories after the fact, accused of aiding suspects after the January 2023 murder. If convicted, they face up to 15 years in prison.

Others, including Jason Lee Hathaway, Fred Joseph Prosperi (“Freddy”), and William Scott Gardner (“Big Will”), are charged with attempted murder and assault from a July 2023 attack on Pagan members at a Dairy Queen parking lot in Wade, NC. Each could serve up to 30 years.

The indictment also names Jonathan Michael Robarge for tampering with a witness, victim, or informant by harassment; he faces up to three years in prison. He has ties to both the Hell’s Angels and Red Devils.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to dismantling violent criminal networks and ensuring public safety. Authorities encourage anyone with information to come forward, highlighting the importance of community cooperation in combating organized crime.