Odis 'Buck' Garrett: The Dark Legacy Of A Hells Angels Enforcer
The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, an organization synonymous with outlaw culture and a formidable presence in the criminal underworld, has seen its share of notorious figures. Among them, Odis "Buck" Garrett stands out as a particularly powerful and ruthless individual whose criminal enterprises spanned from vast drug networks to brutal acts of murder. His story is a chilling testament to the extreme lengths some within such organizations would go to maintain power and enforce their twisted code.
Buck Garrett was not just a rank-and-file member; he was a leader, a man who wielded significant influence within the Hells Angels, particularly in California. His name became inextricably linked with some of the most heinous crimes associated with the club, leaving a trail of violence and fear that reverberated through the justice system for decades.
The Ascent of a Hells Angels Powerhouse
Odis "Buck" Garrett's journey within the Hells Angels was marked by a rapid ascent through the ranks, establishing him as a figure of considerable authority and respect—or perhaps, fear—within the club. He was known to be associated with multiple chapters, including serving as the ex-president of the Hells Angels Vallejo wing and the Nomad chapter in Vallejo, California. He was also a member of the Oakland, Calif., chapter and the Voyhoe Chapter of the Hells Angels, suggesting a broad reach and influence across the organization's critical California operations.
Garrett's power was not merely titular; he was described as a "well-respected Hells Angel" who "wielded a lot of power." This influence extended to connections with legendary figures like Sonny Barger, a founding member of the Oakland chapter and arguably the most iconic Hells Angel. Such connections underscore Garrett's standing and his ability to operate at the highest echelons of the club's hierarchy, enabling him to orchestrate large-scale criminal activities with impunity for years.
A Criminal Empire: Drugs, Prostitution, and Violence
The Hells Angels' involvement in organized crime, particularly drug trafficking, is well-documented. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Hells Angels began large-scale drug distribution during mid-1967, quickly becoming the leading manufacturer and distributor of LSD in California. This era also saw them embroiled in violent drug wars, such as the conflict with the Gypsy Jokers in the San Francisco Bay Area, which eventually led to an accord where the Jokers left California for Oregon.
Buck Garrett's Grip on the Underworld
Buck Garrett capitalized on this established criminal infrastructure, expanding his own illicit empire. He was convicted in June of running what prosecutors called the largest methamphetamine manufacturing and distribution case in the United States. This conviction, when he was 49, highlighted the sheer scale of his drug operations, cementing his status as a major drug kingpin. His reach extended beyond drug manufacturing and distribution; Garrett also ran a brothel in San Francisco called "The Love Nest" for the Hells Angels, illustrating his diverse portfolio of illegal enterprises.
The Brutal Retaliation: The Margo Compton Murders
One of the darkest chapters in Buck Garrett's criminal history, and perhaps the most infamous, revolves around the murder of Margo Compton and her family. This act of extreme violence underscored the Hells Angels' brutal code of retaliation against those who dared to cross them or cooperate with law enforcement.
The Testimony that Sealed a Fate
Margo Compton became entangled with Odis "Buck" Garrett through her work at "The Love Nest" brothel in San Francisco. However, her involvement took a tragic turn when she was convinced to testify against Garrett and several other members of the Oakland, Calif., chapter of the Hells Angels in a prostitution case. Her testimony, given shortly before her murder, made her a target for retaliation, a decision that would cost her and her innocent family their lives.
The Horrific Crime and Its Aftermath
The retribution was swift and merciless. Garrett was accused of ordering the death of Margo Compton, her twin seven-year-old daughters (some reports state six-year-olds), and a family friend. All four people were executed by gunshot. The brutality of the crime sent shockwaves through the community and demonstrated the Hells Angels' chilling capacity for violence. This heinous act, which occurred 17 or 18 years prior to some of his convictions, was a long-standing stain on his record, eventually leading to his downfall.
Buck Garrett, at 52 years old, was convicted in July on four counts of murder for ordering these horrific killings. A jury found him guilty, and a judge subsequently sentenced him to four life prison terms. Another man, described as a Hells Angels "wannabe" named "Bugeye Bob" McClure, was also convicted of murdering the woman, her twins, and the family friend, allegedly acting on orders from a top Hells Angels leader, strongly implying Garrett.
Life Behind Bars and Lingering Influence
Even after his incarceration, Buck Garrett's criminal proclivities and influence did not wane entirely. He continued to operate within the prison system, demonstrating his enduring ties to the underworld and his capacity for illicit activities.
A Major Meth Supplier in Prison
Remarkably, Odis "Buck" Garrett was identified as a major meth supplier even while behind bars. This detail highlights his deep-rooted involvement in drug trafficking and his ability to adapt his criminal enterprises to his circumstances. It was behind bars where Garrett reportedly told Thompson the story of the family’s infamous murders, a chilling confession that further illuminated the depths of his depravity.
Prison Politics and Threats
Garrett
Gangsters Out Blog: Odis Buck Garrett died in prison
Gangsters Out Blog: Odis Buck Garrett died in prison
2 members of the biker gang Hells Angels Stock Photo: 33161464 - Alamy
