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Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs Front And Center After Waco Shootout

Authorities investigate a shooting in the parking lot of the Twin Peaks restaurant Sunday, May 17, 2015, in Waco, Texas. Authorities say that the shootout victims were members of rival biker gangs that had gathered for a meeting. (Jerry Larson/AP)
Authorities investigate a shooting in the parking lot of the Twin Peaks restaurant Sunday, May 17, 2015, in Waco, Texas. Authorities say that the shootout victims were members of rival biker gangs that had gathered for a meeting. (Jerry Larson/AP)

Authorities in Texas had warned weeks ago that tensions were escalating between rival motorcycle gangs.

On Sunday, the rest of the country learned about it too when a shootout erupted among the gangs at the Twin Peaks in Waco, Texas, killing nine people and injuring another 18.

About 170 bikers were arrested. In some parts of the country, state and federal law enforcement consider these biker gangs a significant threat.

Here & Now’s Robin Young delves into the history and subculture of outlaw motorcycle gangs with James Quinn, a professor at the University of North Texas, who studied gang culture.

Guest

  • James Quinn, a professor at the University of North Texas.

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