The Hells Angels motorcycle gang sues Alexander McQueen for using death's head insignia

OFF THE WIRE
By Lindsay Goldwert DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

Family, fashionistas say bye to McQueen in quiet fashion The Hells Angels want their death's head back.

The infamous motorcycle gang is accusing designers at Alexander McQueen of illegally using the Angels' trademark symbol, the Financial Times reports.

The Hells Angels Corporation alleges that the "Hell's Knuckle Duster ring" and other apparel and accessories utilize the gang's icon without permission.

PPR, the luxury parent company of Alexander McQueen, is named in the suit filed in California Federal court, as are Saks Fifth Avenue and Zappos for selling the goods.

It's not just for economic reasons. The bikers are concerned for the safety of the wearers of the death's head since "anyone wearing them would be considered an imposter by club members," says the gang's longtime attorney Fritz Clapp.

The Angels have successfully sued before.

In 2006, the Hells Angels filed a lawsuit against Disney for using the Hells Angels name and membership images in its script for the film "Wild Hogs."

The gang withdrew the complaint after receiving assurances that its marks would not appear in the film, according Clapp, reports FT.

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