Bikers Rally in Waco Over Incarceration of Those Arrested at Deadly Brawl

by ELISHA FIELDSTADT
NBC

Hundreds of bikers gathered outside a Waco, Texas, courthouse Sunday to protest the incarceration of more than 100 bikers in the aftermath of a fatal shootout involving motorcycle clubs at a restaurant weeks earlier.

The “All for 1” silent rally outside the McLennan County Courthouse was meant to protest the reactions of judges and police following a brawl at a Twin Peaks restaurant during a gathering of bikers that left nine people dead and 18 others injured.

“The Waco PD and other agencies involved has slandered every biker in the state of Texas as gang members and criminals repeatedly,” said theFacebook page for the event, which had 1,300 RSVPs. Organizers encouraged protesters to bring signs that said things like “We are not criminals,” “I’m not a gang member” and “Free the innocent.”

About 100 of the more than 170 bikers who were arrested after the May 17 violence remain in jail on $1 million bond, and those who gathered Sunday said many of them do not deserve to be in custody, NBC Dallas-Fort Worthreported.

“I think we’re here in solidarity to support innocent people who have gone to jail who were in the wrong spot at the wrong time,” said attendee Skee Dodson. “We’re doctors, lawyers and brokers, but we’re not gang members, and I just want to make sure nobody mistakes me for a gang member.”

Organizers warned those who planned to attend to make sure the sticks their signs were on were not too long or pointed. “Don’t want to be accused of having a weapon,” the Facebook post said. “Be friendly leave attitudes at home. If you rile easily stay at home.”

Police officers were on scene, but they served only to escort the bikers during the ride that was a part of the protest, NBC Dallas-Fort Worth reported.