In 2011, an FBI report classified Insane Clown Posse fans as gang members. Founded in Detroit, Michigan, Insane Clown Posse is a hip-hop/metal duo that was widely popular in the late 90s and maintains a devoted fan base for both their music and later wrestling endeavors. Fans identify themselves as Juggalos and typically wear a tattoo or jewelry depicting a man running with a hatchet. The report called the zealous fans a “loosely organized hybrid gang,” and stated that members were known to commit crimes such as vandalism and assault regularly. On behalf of Insane Clown Posse, the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan filed a lawsuit for violations of the band and the fans’ rights to free speech and due process because of the report and subsequent profiling.
Ruling and Response
Last week, Judge Robert Cleland issued a 14-page opinion on the situation and found the U.S. Justice Department innocent of any wrongdoing in the matter of classifying Juggalos as gang members. Cleland elaborated to say that the report does not specify action that should be taken, but simply offers local law enforcement a description to follow of general gang trends.
Insane Clown Posse band members Joseph Bruce and Joseph Utsler, better known by their stage personas Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope, were disappointed with the ruling. “This is not the end. We’ll keep fighting to clear the Juggalo family name,” Bruce said. The ACLU has announced the intention to file an appeal.