Vernal Police Department has issued a response following public speculation on and off of social media regarding police response to a motorcycle rally over the weekend. The Utah Chapter of POBOB, the Pissed Off Bastards of Berdoo, and Rebel Bastards Rocky Mountain held a ‘Ride Against Suicide’ poker run and conference at Western Park in Vernal. As a result, you may have noticed more law enforcement in town and even members of a SWAT team. “We are aware of public discussion regarding enforcement efforts during this event,” shared Vernal PD on Monday. “We encourage everyone to recognize the distinctions between a motorcycle club and a ‘one-percent’ motorcycle gang. The group involved in this event was identified as a one-percent motorcycle gang, and our operations remained focused on lawful enforcement and public safety throughout the weekend.” The term ‘one-percenter’ originated in 1947 as a label given by the American Motorcycle Association in response to outlaw biker groups behind the violent Hollister Rally of 1947 of which the ‘Pissed Off Bastards of Berdoo’ website proudly states they were a part of as a moment that “helped shape the outlaw biker culture.” Vernal PD shared that during the Vernal event, law enforcement conducted traffic stops for observed violations resulting in arrests for firearm offenses, multiple DUI offenses, drug offenses, and other violations. Vernal PD concluded Monday’s statement with the following: “Our primary goal was to ensure a safe weekend for residents, visitors, and event attendees. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of all involved agencies, the weekend concluded safely. We appreciate the community’s ongoing cooperation and support.”
