Routine Patrol Leads to Armed Outlaw Biker Arrest on Southern State Parkway

On May 10, 2025, a routine early-morning patrol by New York State Police on the Southern State Parkway rapidly escalated into a daring roadside arrest. At approximately 2:10 a.m., troopers observed a disabled motorcycle on the westbound shoulder near Exit 18. Responding to the situation, officers stopped to assist the rider, later identified as Aaron B. Morgan, 45, of Queens. However, what appeared to be a mechanical issue soon unfolded into an encounter laden with danger and criminal implications.

During the initial contact, troopers noted that Morgan was standing beside his motorcycle wearing a leather vest. The vest featured patches of the Twister MC—a known outlaw motorcycle gang—and prominently displayed the notorious “1%” patch, a symbol of defiance and outlaw identity among gang members. In addition, nunchucks were attached visibly to the outside of his vest. As the officers engaged Morgan in conversation to assess his well-being and the motorcycle’s condition, he unexpectedly produced a set of metal knuckles from his vest pocket.

Recognizing the imminent threat, the troopers acted swiftly. Despite Morgan’s attempts to resist arrest, the officers, relying on their rigorous training and adherence to strict safety protocols, were able to subdue him without injury. The quick and decisive actions of the officers helped prevent further escalation in what could have turned into a far more dangerous confrontation.

Evidence and Additional Findings

A subsequent search of Morgan’s person revealed a small baggie containing an unidentified white powdery substance. Further examination of his motorcycle uncovered a loaded Smith & Wesson handgun containing 15 rounds. These findings, combined with his overt gang affiliations and weapon display, escalated the seriousness of the situation significantly.

Following the arrest, Morgan was promptly transported to the New York State Police East Meadow Barracks, where he was processed. The evidence collected during the incident strengthened the case against him, leading to several serious charges being filed.

Charges and Legal Implications

Morgan now faces multiple charges, including:

• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class C Felony): This charge is backed by New York State law under which the possession of a loaded firearm, particularly with intent to use it unlawfully, carries severe penalties.
• Three Counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (Class D Felony): The discovery of additional weaponry, along with previous criminal histories that are common in gang-related cases, escalates this matter.
• Resisting Arrest (Class A Misdemeanor): Even though this offense carries lighter penalties compared to the weapon charges, it compounds the legal difficulties faced by Morgan.
• Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree (Class A Misdemeanor): Finding a baggie with an unidentified white powder suggests involvement in drug-related activities, a factor that could add depth to the overall charge portfolio.

For gang-affiliated individuals, such charges commonly result in enhanced penalties and may prompt federal investigations under statutes such as the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. Prosecutors tend to emphasize the inherent danger posed by gang members when additional evidence—such as weapons and controlled substances—is present.

Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs and the “1%” Patch

Twister MC, the gang whose patches were clearly visible on Morgan’s vest, is widely recognized as an outlaw motorcycle gang. Outlaw groups are notorious for their involvement in organized crime, ranging from drug trafficking to violent crimes. The “1%” patch worn by Morgan is emblematic in this subculture. Its origins trace back to a claim made by the American Motorcyclist Association in the 1940s that only one percent of motorcyclists were outlaws, while the vast majority observed the law. Today, the patch serves not only as a mark of distinction but also as a declaration of defiance against societal norms and legal boundaries.

Law Enforcement Procedures and Officer Safety

When confronted with a situation involving a suspected gang member or the presence of weapons, New York State Police adhere to rigorous protocols to ensure both officer and public safety. Officers begin with an approach that emphasizes caution—a method that includes keeping weapons within reach, requesting backup when gang affiliation is suspected, and conducting thorough searches based on established standards of reasonable suspicion or probable cause. In this incident, the troopers’ decision-making reflected a balance between ensuring public safety and upholding the constitutional rights of the individual. The use of de-escalation techniques, clear communication, and the employment of body cameras all served to document the encounter accurately while minimizing the risk of injury or undue escalation.