Attacking Mongols’ trademark is wrong

By John Stites, Henderson

Thursday, July 31, 2014 | 2:01 a.m.

As a retired law enforcement officer from California, I have known of the Mongols and their conduct since their inception both professionally and personally.

Contrary to their attorney’s assertion that the criminal conduct left with “rogue actors” no longer with the club, I beg to differ.

There are still plenty of rogue actors in the club who are involved in all aspects of criminal activity.

We cops often referred to them as “gangbangers on bikes” due to the massive effort to recruit Hispanic street gang members into the club during the 1990s and early 2000s. Their conduct also pushed out white members as the leadership pushed for a “puro raza” membership.

The feds have penetrated their ranks several times with undercover agents with mixed results. Frankly, I don’t believe the feds are up to it. Failed results only empower the Mongols.

Regardless, the Justice Department’s attempt to seize the group’s trademark using asset forfeiture laws is an assault on the rights of every citizen involved with a group in this nation.

As with the government’s relentless assault on the Washington Redskins, a successful case will set a dangerous precedent to any group on the federal “don’t like” list.

This prosecution cannot be allowed success. Look at the big picture to determine the real goals of the federal government.