Jay Dobyns lived a double life for two years, infiltrating the Hells Angels in Arizona while working for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). His experiences are now being shared in a new A&E series, “Secrets of The Hells Angels,” which delves into the history and inner workings of the notorious biker club. This infiltration was groundbreaking, as the Hells Angels prided themselves on being impenetrable by law enforcement. Despite their paranoia and extensive internal rules, Dobyns managed to gain their trust and gather valuable information.
The Hells Angels have a long history dating back to their founding in 1948 by World War II veterans in California. Over the years, they have expanded globally and faced numerous law enforcement crackdowns due to their involvement in criminal activities such as drug trafficking. Despite this, the club has managed to flourish, open chapters worldwide, and win legal battles against law enforcement. Dobyns, in his undercover role as “Jaybird” Davis, was able to witness firsthand the inner workings and paranoia of the Hells Angels, which kept them out of jail and prevented infiltration.
Dobyns’ undercover assignment came to an end in 2003 after becoming too dangerous to continue. Following the exposure of his identity, threats and retaliation from the Hells Angels put his life and his family’s safety at risk. His house was burned down in 2008, although his family managed to escape unharmed. Despite these challenges, Dobyns reflected on his experience and the toll it took on his personal and family life. He acknowledged that putting his undercover assignment above his family was a significant regret, as the Hells Angels continued to pose a threat to his safety and that of his loved ones.
With over 500 undercover investigations spanning two decades, Dobyns retired from the ATF in 2014. In 2009, he co-wrote a memoir, “No Angel,” detailing his experiences infiltrating the Hells Angels. Dobyns revealed that the Hells Angels, despite their dangerous and violent reputation, were also charming and likable in his personal interactions with them. The “Secrets of the Hells Angels” series offers a unique insight into the inner workings of the club and the challenges faced by law enforcement in infiltrating and prosecuting its members.
The Hells Angels continue to be a subject of fascination for many, with their elusive and secretive nature drawing interest from the public. The club’s history, criminal activities, and ongoing clashes with law enforcement make for compelling storytelling. Despite the dangers and challenges faced by undercover agents like Dobyns, their work sheds light on the hidden world of outlaw motorcycle gangs and the lengths law enforcement will go to in order to bring them to justice.
Overall, Dobyns’ experiences as an undercover agent infiltrating the Hells Angels offer a unique perspective on the inner workings of a notorious biker club. His story sheds light on the challenges faced by law enforcement in infiltrating organized crime groups and the personal toll it can take on the agents involved. Despite the risks and dangers involved, Dobyns’ dedication to his work and commitment to bringing criminals to justice is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who serve in law enforcement.
