Recently, it was reported that the former president of the Ventura County Chapter of the Hells Angels was arrested on federal charges stemming from an extortion plot and the firebombing of two competing tattoo shops back in 2007.

George Christie Jr., 64, of Ventura, was one of four defendants arrested recently on charges of federal conspiracy, extortion, and arson charges contained in a six-count indictment.

The indictment alleges that Christie conspired to threaten the owners the tattoo parlors in an effort to get them to close down their businesses. When the owners refused to close Christie allegedly conspired to firebomb the businesses. Christie is charged with extortion conspiracies, one count of conspiracy to use fire or explosives to damage property, and two counts of use of fire or explosives to damage property.

Both of the tattoo parlors were damaged in July of 2007 when Molotov cocktails were thrown into the businesses by individuals acting in furtherance of this conspiracy.

The three counts in the indictment that charge the extortions each carry a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The counts in the indictment that allege arson each carry a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison, and a mandatory minimum of five years in federal prison. Therefore, if he is convicted of all six counts in the indictment, Christie would face a statutory maximum penalty of 120 years in federal prison.

If you or a loved one have been accused or charged with a federal crime, it is very important that you speak with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney immediately, like the attorneys at Wallin & Klarich. We have over 30 years of experienced handling this type of matters and can assist you in obtaining the best possible result. Call the law firm of Wallin & Klarich today at, (888) 749-0034 to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney about your case.