Introduction:
Sonny Barger is an iconic motorcycle gang leader and founding member of the notorious Hells Angels, which originated in California in the late 1940s. Barger is known for his reckless lifestyle, outlaw symbol, and a notorious reputation as one of the most feared bikers in the world. Over the years, many people have been curious about his income and assets. In this post, we will dig deep into uncovering Sonny Barger’s staggering net worth and the inside scoop of how he amassed his wealth.
Early Life and Career:
Ralph Hubert Barger Jr. was born on October 8, 1938, in Modesto, California. Barger joined the Hells Angels motorcycle club in the early 1960s and quickly rose to the top of the club’s ranks. Barger’s leadership style and magnetic personality helped him become a prominent figure in the Hells Angels, and he later became the president of the Oakland chapter.
Hells Angels’ Income and Sources of Revenue:
The Hells Angels are widely regarded as one of the wealthiest and most powerful motorcycle gangs in the world. Although the group’s exact income and sources of revenue are difficult to ascertain, it is known that they have made a significant fortune from various criminal activities, illegal arms dealings, drug trafficking, and prostitution.
Sonny Barger’s Net Worth:
Based on our research, Sonny Barger’s net worth is estimated at around $800,000. While this amount may seem small compared to other wealthy bikers, it is crucial to note that Barger has spent years avoiding arrest and forfeiting his assets to the government.
Business Ventures:
Sonny Barger has ventured into various businesses over the years. In the 1970s, he opened a successful hunting and fishing club in Montana, called the Barger’s Elk Meadows Lodge. The lodge was a popular getaway for the wealthy and the famous, including John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Johnny Cash.
Legal Troubles:
Sonny Barger has had a prolific criminal record since the 1960s. He has been arrested several times for various crimes, including fraud, drug trafficking, and conspiracy to commit a murder. In 1972, Barger was sentenced to five years in prison following his conviction for conspiring to bomb a rival gang clubhouse.
Personal Life:
Sonny Barger has been married four times. His first wife was Sharon Barger, whom he married in the mid-1950s. After they divorced, he married a Hells Angel’s club member’s daughter, Zorana Balog, in the 1960s. Barger then married his third wife, Linda Sanchez, before marrying his current wife, Zorana Barger, in 2005.
Legacy and Influence:
Sonny Barger’s influence on the world of bikers and motorcycle gangs is unparalleled. He is regarded as a legendary figure and an icon within the Hells Angels and the wider biker community. His iconography and reputation still hold a great deal of sway among young bikers and fans of biker culture globally.
Conclusion:
Based on our findings, Sonny Barger’s net worth is estimated to be around $800,000. Although his net worth may seem small compared to other wealthy bikers, it is crucial to note that Barger has been able to amass his wealth through various businesses, consulting, and other non-criminal activities over the years. Sonny Barger’s legacy continues to influence bikers worldwide and remains a fascinating figure to this day.
FAQs:
1. How did Sonny Barger become a Hells Angels member?
Sonny Barger joined the Hells Angels motorcycle club in the early 1960s and quickly rose to the top of the club’s ranks.
2. What is the source of Hells Angels’ income?
The Hells Angels have made a significant fortune from various criminal activities, including illegal arms dealings, drug trafficking, and prostitution.
3. How many times has Sonny Barger been married?
Sonny Barger has been married four times.
4. Has Sonny Barger left Hells Angels?
No, Sonny Barger is still a member of the Hells Angels.
5. How old is Sonny Barger?
Sonny Barger was born on October 8, 1938, and is currently 82 years old.