AUSTRALIA - Lawyer slams anti-bikie laws for vilification of bikies

OFF THE WIRE
A LAWYER has slammed the new anti bikie fortification laws which will come into effect this Sunday.

John Suta, who is involved in talks with five motorcycle clubs about the laws, including the Hells Angels, says bikies are being vilified unfairly by the Victorian Government, police and a complicit media.

"It is now commonplace that before a suspect is charged, a press release is issued by Victoria Police where press conferences are convened by the Chief Commissioner with, opportunistic politicians proclaiming the great victory in the war against bikies.''

He said there was a strategy of polluting public opinion by manipulating the media.

The Wangaratta-based lawyer is fighting for small Victorian club the Tramps to have their gun licenses and firearms returned.

"The government is simply focusing on what patch people where or what logo they wear on their T-shirts.'' he said.

"The anti-fortification laws are populist and drive the media into a frenzy because bikies are an easy target.''

"Motorcycle clubs do not commit crimes. Individuals do. The current criminal justice system is sufficient in respect to dealing with crime.''

Mr Suta has addressed clubs the Satans Soldiers, Immortals, Vikings and Hells Angels although he is yet to be engaged to act on their behalf.

He has also addressed the United Motorcycle Council.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/lawyer-slams-antibikie-laws-for-vilification-of-bikies/story-fnii5smt-1226732455262