The World Run was not intended to instill fear in the local community.

LACONIA, N.H. (AP) – The lawyer who represents the Hells Angels said last week’s international gathering was successful, and peaceful, because club members worked to keep it that way.

“The Club came to Laconia not to cause trouble and instill fear in the community, but to vacation in the scenic Lakes Region and spend their hard-earned dollars in the local economy,” wrote P. Scott Bratton.

Bratton said the World Run, which ended Sunday, was not intended to instill fear in the local community. He also thanked area residents for their hospitality.

An estimated 1,500 club members attended the annual gathering of Hells Angels from around the country and the world. The few Hells Angels who spoke to reporters said they came to New Hampshire to have fun on vacation, not make trouble.

The Angels have a reputation for being involved in violent incidents, mostly in clashes with rival biker gangs. There have been shooting deaths, knifings and confrontations with police in the past.

Police said things were peaceful because officers were out in force, but Bratton gave credit to the bikers.

“Although much money was spent on law enforcement, this unique, multicultural private convention was a success because of the strength, honor, character and courteous conduct of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club,” he wrote.

Area law enforcement officials concurred the event was a success.

“From the standpoint of the New Hampshire state police, things went very smoothly. Hells Angels Motorcycle Club arrived in Laconia, conducted their meetings and left the Lakes Region area without any serious incidents except for a fight at a local restaurant,” State Police Capt. Burke said.

Lt. Richard Bathstone said the Belknap County Sheriffs Department obtained an estimated $200,000 grant through the U.S. Justice Department to pay for the additional staffing.

Bathstone said law enforcement did not intrude “on any of their (Hells Angels) rights or freedoms, but people should also feel safe in their communities and a law enforcement presence assisted in that.”

AP-ES-08-07-03 0950EDT

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