FBI asks for help in locating Windsor man charged in Hells Angels probe

Local authorities asked Tuesday for the public's help in locating a 36-year-old Windsor man who has been charged as part of a three-year investigation into the Hells Angels motorcycle gang.

The FBI's San Francisco division, the Santa Rosa Police Department, the CHP and the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office are asking for help in finding Russell Allen Lyles Jr., also known by his nickname “J.R.” The Sonoma County Alliance, a local nonprofit group, is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to his arrest and conviction.

He was indicted last month on federal charges of conspiracy to commit racketeering, maiming in aid of racketeering, and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering. Six members of the Sonoma County chapter of the Hells Angels were arrested in weekend raids as part of the probe. Overall, 11 members were charged in the investigation.

Lyles also has a home in Healdsburg and owns and operates a business in Windsor, the FBI said. He may be traveling with his pregnant fiance, Patricia Syfert, who is not wanted on criminal charges, police added.

Authorities said Lyles has ties to and may be traveling in Lake, Mendocino or Sonoma counties. Lyles is white, 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighs about 185 pounds. He has brown hair and blue eyes.

Those with information on his whereabouts are asked to contact the FBI tip line at 415-553-7400 or through its website at www.tips.fbi.gov.