The Antihero Podcast: Episode Summary Title: Under And Alone w/Billy Queen
Host/Author: The Antihero Podcast
Release Date: August 4, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of The Antihero Podcast, titled "Under And Alone," host Bryn Tucker sits down with Billy Queen, a decorated veteran and former Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) special agent. Billy shares his harrowing experiences infiltrating the notorious Mongols Motorcycle Club (MC), offering an unflinching look into the dangers and moral complexities of undercover law enforcement operations.

Billy Queen's Background

Billy Queen's journey is a testament to relentless dedication and service. With a rich history in the military and various law enforcement agencies, Billy's expertise provided him with the unique skills necessary for deep undercover work.

Billy Queen [06:00]: "You just can't stop. You just get bored easily or you just, you know, I must. I love it, though."

Billy's extensive career includes combat service in Vietnam, where he became a Green Beret, followed by roles as a police officer, border patrol agent, and over two decades with the ATF. Notably, 17 of those years were spent undercover, a testament to his resilience and commitment.

Military Service

Billy's military service began in 1968 during the Vietnam War. His time in the 82nd Airborne Division exposed him to intense combat scenarios, including witnessing mass casualties and participating in perilous intelligence missions.

Billy Queen [10:50]: "I got back in that Jeep, rode back over to 82nd, said, Send me to Nam within 30 days."

Billy's proactive nature led him to volunteer for dangerous missions, exemplifying the courage and sacrifice that would later define his undercover operations.

Transition to Law Enforcement and ATF Service

After his military stint, Billy pursued a career in law enforcement, joining the High Point Police Department before transitioning to border patrol in Temecula, California. His goal was clear: to follow in his father's footsteps and become an ATF agent.

Billy Queen [28:10]: "What happened? I was there about. For about a year and a half, and I wanted to be a police officer, so I joined the High Point Police Department."

Billy's dedication saw him overcoming rigorous training requirements, including mastering Spanish and maintaining peak physical fitness, preparing him for the challenges ahead.

Undercover Work with the Mongols MC

Billy Queen's most notable role was his undercover infiltration of the Mongols Motorcycle Club. Over two years, he embedded himself deeply within the organization, taking on roles of increasing responsibility, ultimately becoming the secretary and treasurer of the San Fernando Valley chapter.

Billy Queen [55:23]: "You have to be willing to do whatever you have to do to make it work. And so playing by the rules... it ain't gonna work."

Billy meticulously built trust within the Mongols, participating in their illicit activities to gather crucial intelligence. This intense immersion exposed him to the brutal realities of gang violence, including assaults, armed robberies, and murder.

Challenges and Moral Dilemmas

Living undercover blurred the lines between Billy's real identity and his fabricated persona, "Billy St. John." The psychological toll was immense, leading to isolation from his family and constant fear of exposure.

Billy Queen [76:37]: "The longer I was in, the more dangerous it got. And it finally got to the point where I couldn't go see my children anymore."

Billy recounts numerous perilous encounters, including attempts on his life by the Mongols who eventually recognized him as an undercover agent. These experiences highlight the extreme risks agents face when operating within hostile environments.

Billy Queen [80:11]: "What are you going to do? I mean, it's coming down to, you know, there's something serious now. The most serious thing that you can think of is about to happen."

His internal conflict intensified as he grappled with the necessity of his role juxtaposed against the personal sacrifices it demanded.

Consequences and Reflection

Billy's undercover work culminated in significant successes for law enforcement, including the prosecution of 54 Mongols members for various crimes under RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act). However, the personal cost was devastating.

Billy Queen [107:15]: "To the people of California, it was worth it. Cause we took a lot of really bad people off the streets to ATF. It was worth it. But to Billy Queen, there was no way it was worth it."

Post-operation, Billy found himself estranged from his former life, with his personal relationships strained and his sense of self deeply affected by his undercover experiences.

Current Affairs and Future Plans

Despite the immense personal cost, Billy Queen remains committed to serving his community. He is currently running for sheriff of Guilford County, leveraging his extensive background to address and combat organized crime effectively.

Billy Queen [116:55]: "I will make a difference."

Billy emphasizes the need for law enforcement personnel who understand the intricacies of criminal organizations, drawn from his firsthand experiences infiltrating and dismantling the Mongols MC.

Conclusion

"Under And Alone" offers a raw and honest portrayal of the sacrifices and ethical quandaries faced by undercover agents. Billy Queen's story is one of unwavering dedication, highlighting both the triumphs and tragedies inherent in the fight against organized crime. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the hidden battles waged by those we rely on to protect and serve.

Notable Quotes

• Billy Queen [00:00]: "When you make the decision to put those colors down on, you're down for the club... There is no timeout."
• Billy Queen [55:23]: "You have to be willing to do whatever you have to do to make it work."
• Billy Queen [76:37]: "The longer I was in, the more dangerous it got."
• Billy Queen [107:15]: "To Billy Queen, there was no way it was worth it."
• Billy Queen [116:55]: "I will make a difference."

Final Thoughts

Billy Queen's narrative in "Under And Alone" illuminates the profound personal and professional challenges faced by undercover agents. His courage and sacrifices underscore the relentless pursuit of justice, often at the expense of personal happiness and safety. This episode not only honors his service but also provides invaluable insights into the complexities of modern law enforcement.