Billy Lane Using His Skills And Helping Others While In Prison

billylaneincourtcyrilhuzeblogAs expected by those who, like me, know him personally, Billy Lane has turned his prison time into a positive by helping other inmates learn how to weld and working on fixing the vehicles of the Avon Park Work Camp where he is serving a 6-year sentence after pleading no contest to one count of vehicular homicide for crashing his pickup truck head-on into and killing 56-year-old Park Ranger Gerald Morelock. During the last 4 months since his sentencing, Billy has also resolved his remaining legal problem surrounding the accident of Setpember 4, 2006. The civil lawsuit filed by Erin derrick – Lane’s passenger during the crash – for hospital bills compensation was settled out of court.

57 Responses to “Billy Lane Using His Skills And Helping Others While In Prison”


  1. 1 Jim Mc. Jan 3rd, 2010 at 10:42 am

    Billy’s got metal working talents few others can match. Sharing his expertise is not s surprise, knowing his desire to work toward enriching others life experiences.

  2. 2 Asa Jan 3rd, 2010 at 11:24 am

    Go Billy ,What he does now is what will define who he really is . Ab

  3. 3 Larry R. Jan 3rd, 2010 at 12:35 pm

    Billy is a stand up guy! He will make the most of the experience and when he is out, he’ll do well.

  4. 4 Rogue Jan 3rd, 2010 at 1:09 pm

    If the State of Florida was really smart they would have Billy teach others how to build a motorcycle and then they would have a job to go to when the get released.

    A bike built in prison could then be auctioned and or raffled off to raise money for inmates their families and the prison system.

    Of course the action of Billy doing this should be counted towards extra gain time and a earlier release from prison.

    Florida has a prison industries named PRIDE and this may be something they would be interested in as well.

    With the increase in motorcycles there is always going to be a need for people to work on them.

  5. 5 George G. Jan 3rd, 2010 at 1:37 pm

    Thanks Cyril ,for keeping us informed with Billy Lane .Hang in there Billy you will be a better person when you return to the bike world .

  6. 6 WGS Jan 3rd, 2010 at 6:24 pm

    This doesn’t surprise me at all. The few times I have talked to him, he was very personable. I wish him the best. Sometimes our worst days are the ones that define us. Good luck Billy!

  7. 7 Jeff Nicklus Jan 3rd, 2010 at 7:58 pm

    I am truly impressed with the comments herein …… no Billy bashers ….. I am impressed beyond words! Must be the New Year and better spirits abound. If Billy changes the life of one person while he is incarcerated his trip will have been worthwhile.

    Just my 10 cents (that is 2 cents adjusted for inflation) worth.

    Over & Out,

    Jeff

  8. 8 toph Jan 3rd, 2010 at 9:46 pm

    this comes as good news to me. whether it be cars or bikes billy can contribute much to those around him in the pen.

    he has street cred and a ton of talent.

    good on florida too for utilizing this man’s abilities to help others.

    toph
    LA,CA

  9. 9 maroco Jan 4th, 2010 at 5:36 am

    Good attitude, if Mr. Billy can help these guys to change ther lives it´s very good for all.

  10. 10 Cade Jan 4th, 2010 at 9:09 am

    This is good,postive stuff.

  11. 11 karend Jan 4th, 2010 at 9:35 am

    Thank God, finally something about Billy, and not one person has trashed him!! Billy is a good man, and it comes as NO surprise that he is doing what he is doing.. Billy is a strong man, with a big heart, he does what he has to do, to make a bad situation good… Keep the faith Billy…

  12. 12 FHP Scott Jan 4th, 2010 at 11:14 am

    I knew that he would make something positive out of the situation.

  13. 13 freedomlaw Jan 4th, 2010 at 11:23 am

    Man up Billy. Make the most of this tough time. Life is about learning after all. You are young and the day of your freedom will come. Live life soberly; one day at a time. (27 years clean.)

  14. 14 Mazz Jan 4th, 2010 at 11:24 am

    A few months before the trial, Mr. Lane had contacted me about helping my high school bike klub out, helping out a small program that helps At Risk kids like mine, way up here in Canada would have done nothing to boost his character down in Florida, I truly believe he was going to do it because he wanted too. That is why this news is no surprize to me. He seems like genuine person and someone that enjoys helping. Whether or not this action decreases his time is irrelevant, it’s the act that matters to me.

    Bad things can happen to good people just as fast as bad things/bad people. It’s a person’s character that can take a situation that seems negative and turn it into a positive. Thanks, Cyril for giving us this news, I was happy to read it and keep up the good work!!

    Mazz.
    BMHS Bike Klub
    Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada.

  15. 15 Night Train of Florida Full Throttle Mag Jan 4th, 2010 at 11:31 am

    Anyone who truly knows Billy should not be surprised about this news one single bit. It was bound to happen. I think Billy will come out of this as a powerhouse and teach a good lesson to all those who like to stereotype bikers. Stay strong Billy! You are missed a great bunch.

  16. 16 WILLIE Jan 4th, 2010 at 11:37 am

    Good job BILLY. I know your influence will be a great inspiration on so many .and time goes by faster when keeping busy you might change a few lives for the good.GOD BLESS.
    RESPECTFULLY
    WILLIE

  17. 17 Brett Jan 4th, 2010 at 11:50 am

    I am also glad no one is ripping Billy. I think stuff like this, when he gets out NO ONE can be a bad judge of him. He did his time & did positive things while doing that time. Hell who knows, maybe Billy just found his new profession. The bike thing is down now, but guys in prison always need to learn new skills. Maybe Billy finds a job teaching prisoners weld skills. I had a neighbor who used to teach masonry at a prison. He quit his job to do it. He also said there was no better feeling then when he;d get letters from his former students telling him it was because of him that they got turned around. They left prison & were able to get a 2nd chance & make something of their lives because of his brick laying classes.

    Maybe this is Billy’s calling.

    The worst part of our system is the normal guy gets felonies thrown at him from almost anything now. Then they don’t get a chance after they get out so they end up back in prison.

    I will always stand up for Billy.

  18. 18 TRAEY STRAIN Jan 4th, 2010 at 11:54 am

    THIS IS A GOOD THING , HATED TO SEE WHAT HAPPENED TO A GOOD MAN ,BUT ATLEAST HE IS HELPING PEOPLE TO MABE CHANGE THEIR LIVES FOR THE BETTER. GOOD GOING BILLY ! PROVE ALL THOSE CRITICS WRONG. AND THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR INSPRATION IN MY BIKE BUILDING . GOD BLESS

  19. 19 Drew Jan 4th, 2010 at 12:08 pm

    Thank you Cyril for posting this, Billy is a good man and has always been well intentioned when it came to this matter. Remorse does not even begin to describe Bills personal feelings over all of this. I have no doubt Bill will continue to make the best of his situation and others will be better for it.

  20. 20 Bigalyts Jan 4th, 2010 at 1:55 pm

    You got to credit the Prison system ! I amazed they had the Intelligence to realize that a inmate that has a Talent like Billy’s could be used to further other Inmates minds, and make them productive members of Socety when they leave. Just think about the change of attitudes to thePrisoners that are fortunate enough to work with or under Billy? The day’s probaly move a lot faster. You know I never knew that Moreluck was a Park Ranger!

  21. 21 Ritchie Jan 4th, 2010 at 4:20 pm

    Nothing can be created without something else first being destroyed. Think about it………. You gotta let your soul shine no matter what.

  22. 22 ger Jan 4th, 2010 at 4:44 pm

    never met billy and probably never will
    but by reading all the comments above
    he sounds like a decent sort
    i wish him all the best..

  23. 23 Manhattan Choppers Jan 4th, 2010 at 5:17 pm

    Billy was always nice @ IH, never pretentious. I hope choppers inc will open one day again. I heard it’s been closed 2 yrs,shame.. Stay strong Amy.

  24. 24 Yippie Jan 4th, 2010 at 7:29 pm

    Good for you Billy. Good thoughts commin your way

  25. 25 Dr. Dave Jan 4th, 2010 at 8:41 pm

    Good news; and a real blessing for those he is teaching.

  26. 26 jatinder pal Jan 5th, 2010 at 2:51 am

    Good work billy…u r my one of the favourite builder,and who is running CHOPPERSINC.now.

  27. 27 jack1340 Jan 5th, 2010 at 8:51 am

    Billy, I feel so sorry for you. I wish you all the best,
    One of your biggest fans!

  28. 28 Petter Jan 5th, 2010 at 9:20 am

    Hey there, thanks for Cyril to keep us posted on this. However, does anyone know the address to send Billy some postcards or letters?

    Thanks for everyone!

  29. 29 Manhattan Choppers Jan 5th, 2010 at 12:03 pm

    DC#C03706 P.O. Box 1100 County Rd.64 East,Avon Park.Fl. 33826-1100

  30. 30 Larry and Janine Jan 5th, 2010 at 1:33 pm

    Rogue,

    Every aspect of your blog is far supieror to any comment I’ve read regarding any issue.. I only wish someone of importance and pull would read it and introduce your idea to the penal system, perhaps on a national level, besides a state level. It’s unfortunate that quality people get caught up in the wrong places at the wrong time and even in the wrong frame of mind.. It’s mindblowing to think that some of us can be so strong willed to take our talents to the next level, yet be so weak to allow any substance to control our reactions and abilities to react in a responsible manor.

    These are good people, with good souls, who have so much to offer. Your right, such talents shouldn’t go to waste..

  31. 31 texican Jan 5th, 2010 at 10:17 pm

    Perhaps billy can help a few souls find inspiration and purpose. With that comes redemption. Good luck to you Mr Lane

  32. 32 Vendor2 Jan 5th, 2010 at 10:46 pm

    We’ve all made mistakes and continue to ask for forgiveness. Billys a great guy that made one of the ultimate mistakes. I hope he finds the forgiveness he needs to move forward. I can’t imaging having to live with it.

  33. 33 Yar Senall Feb 5th, 2010 at 11:33 pm

    I have beeen to Avon Park to see Billy a few times. Billy is doing as good as anyone can be doing under the circumstances. Billy maintains a positive attitude at all times. Billy is a very strong person and no one should be suprised that he is helping others. Billy has helped countless people with many things from parts,money, labor, and fund raisers. Funny thing is that most of the time he did it on the down low and not for any accolades. Billy is the genuine article, he is a stand up dude and I am proud to call him my friend.

  34. 34 sir_will_yum Feb 6th, 2010 at 6:51 pm

    Met Billy Lane several times…GREAT GUY !!! TRUE BIKER !!!
    Keep the faith Billy, We will ride again! Time heals all wounds, I know first hand.
    Hope I get to talk to you again when you get out.

    p.s. Worst case senario you can build custom Jet Ski’s and ride the waves…
    I can just imagine what you would come up with!

  35. 35 John Feb 23rd, 2010 at 12:52 pm

    I am indeed happy to see that he is making the best of the situation, and seeking to make ammends for his actions.

    I am one of the few that believes Billy Lane belongs in prison for his actions and should lose everything, including his freedom, for many years. As good of a person as Billy may be, he still took a human life through his own stupidity.

  36. 36 Brenda L Apr 28th, 2010 at 9:16 am

    I had not heard the outcome of Billy Lane’s trial, and just happened to go to the Choppers Inc web site and seen that it is no longer active, then after searching I found that he is now in prison. Reading the messages that have been left regarding him and to him is very uplifting. After reading John’s comment that he feels he is one of “few” that believe Billy should be in prison prompted me to leave this. I did not read any previous comment left that felt he should “not” be serving time. If you step back and look at the big picture here, I’m sure Billy lives in his own “prison” everyday thinking about what he did. He will carry that forever, whether you, me, or anyone else is there to remind him..he will never forget. Six years in prison, and right off the bat he is trying to make a positive for a horrible situation that Im certain he never intended to happen. People are only human, we all make mistakes, wrong choices, be it what it may. Mr Morelock’s family have seen it for what it is….A horrible mistake on Billy’s part…and they have forgiven him. What wonderful people they must be. Maybe a few could learn from that, open up thier hearts and realize that the first step to healing is forgiveness….Billy my prayers are with you, what your doing is just a credit to who you really are. Bless you!

  37. 37 Jim Cattle Apr 28th, 2010 at 9:56 am

    Ha! Ha! Ha!

    It is to bad that Jesse James can’t be with poor Billy.

    That would take two assholes off the street!

  38. 38 jr boyd May 10th, 2010 at 12:42 pm

    I hope Billy relationship with JESUS continues to grow. He deserves it and that’s not saying anything about what the people who meet him will receive from his new relationship but enough with the christian stuff. The reason I am really here is to say you can tell who Billy is by reading what is being said about him. He has a true heart. I was particularly moved by the bike club in Canada. I too believe that he would have went if he could have. But to you out there who have spoken shit because you don’t like the image you perceive about Billy You just wait and see the gaint that walks though those doors when he is released. Instead of making a list of followers I thought I would just ask you to name me a person or group that won’t be pulling for him now.
    Better get the hell out of the way.
    I also agree with those of you who have spoken of the benefits the prison system could receive from him and his inmates making and repairing bikes but I don’t feel that the idiots at the Florida Prison System could handle that kind of income or responsibility. Isn’t it easier just to lock them up and forget about them.
    Rock on Billy I’ll see on the highway.

  39. 39 Godfather Jul 6th, 2010 at 3:07 pm

    Don’t know the guy but……..We all have in the past made a driving mistake and got away with it!! This time one man, Bike and someone Dead!! You Can’t change what has gone down!! I feel sorry for the Bike Guy and his family!! Same for Billy, Wrong place Wrong time.
    Hope Billy can teach his skills to others and when he gets out can get that business going again. Good Luck inside mate……And Remember ” RIDE TO SURVIVE”
    Love my bikes and Own Two…….. DUCATI HEAVEN!!! We all know the risks on riding!!!
    All the best BILLY LANE……Ciao Godfather!

  40. 40 Bel Jul 22nd, 2010 at 6:16 am

    Only the Big G judges and he forgives……Support from Melbourne ,Australia

  41. 41 Naveen Nandal Aug 11th, 2010 at 5:40 am

    I am a guy from India…somehow into Choppers….Admiror and Fan of BILLY LANE…Unfortunate incidence happened but Billy took it like a Man…Good Work Billy….Jst Remember lifes like a Sine Curve,,,,,,

  42. 42 Graphic Violence Oct 3rd, 2010 at 5:25 am

    being a bike painter, i truly understand the stresses of Billy’s chosen profession. tons of hours, your creations constantly judged and nit picked, can stress you out. and i also understand the need to unwind and blow off steam. i got a pot possession 2 yrs ago, so i had to do drug tests for a year, so i started drinking, quite heavily. then got a dui a year ago. i could have done the same thing Billy did, but i got lucky and didn’t hit anyone. this situation will not only help teach others, help other inmates learn a trade, but might be rejuvenating experience for Billy. could be a nice stress free couple of years for him. he’ll come out refreshed with new ideas and a new outlook.

  43. 43 mike mueller Oct 26th, 2010 at 4:14 pm

    Much respect for Billy,thought he was smarter than that,but we all make mistakes.positive steps now.see ya soon Billy.keep yer head up.

  44. 44 Stormbringer Oct 30th, 2010 at 3:32 pm

    This guy Killed a 56 year old man on a scooter because he was drunk and irresponsible. I mean this guy killed a fellow biker or scooter rider, take your pic. He lost his drivers licence in NC because of another DUI. I am happy to see him in prison, that is where he belongs. How he only recieved 6 years is beyond me. Killing a guy who is just working his job geting zapped by a narcissistic scumbag. No one should buy anything from this drunk driving killer.

  45. 45 Dan Burke Nov 6th, 2010 at 11:53 am

    Cyril…thanks for the info. I’ve visited both Cyril’s shop and Billy’s while vacationing in Florida with the kids. Glad Billy’s talents are being put to use. I just got through reading Billy’s book. Billy took his punishment like a man and thankfully wasn’t whining (sp?) like all the other celebrities out there. Here in Texas drunk driving causes more fatalities than in any other state. Billy should have taken the DUI in North Carolina to heart. Anyone with kids knows that a parents biggest fear is the drunks and asshole redlight runners. If anyone wants to know how bad most people drive…ride a motorcycle for a day! God bless Billy and the Morelock family.

  46. 46 Andrew Dec 9th, 2010 at 9:39 am

    Best of luck billy we are praying for you in texas make the best of it see you soon Vato. Carnal de Tejas

  47. 47 harmony_n_rhyme Dec 31st, 2010 at 9:44 pm

    Wow …. just found out. Our life choices determine the outcome of all aspects of life … this should be a lesson to all … make conscious choices in all aspects of our lives.
    Billy … just remember to take time to forgive yourself – grieve – heal. That which is more powerful than all, already has.
    Love you
    “beauty blew thru my soul one day, mesmerized me and took my breathe away ……”

  48. 48 Kelly Jan 26th, 2011 at 11:55 pm

    I met Billy several times and in several cities. I even joked that I was his “stalker from “PA”. I hope everyone who’s lives have been changed by this will, with time, heal and be better people. I wish Billy the best and hope I can meet him again one day.

  49. 49 rags Feb 10th, 2011 at 6:53 pm

    he’s a talented bike builder.never met the dude but he will build again.6 years will go fast.

  50. 50 pinero Feb 13th, 2011 at 10:10 pm

    keep your head up billy,we all screw up but i listened to you in court right before the judge sentenced you,you owned up to it ,apologized to the man’s familly and looked at the judge and said i deserved what ever i get,NOW THAT’S A REAL MAN.good luck billy.

  51. 51 Kentucky-Bred Feb 28th, 2011 at 8:50 am

    I am glad that Cyril has the time to keep us updated on Billy Lane. Billy Lane is exactly where he belongs. Lane has plenty of time to think about his actions. Now he is paying the price for his lack of judgment & poor actions.
    Maybe when Charlie Sheen goes to the slammer he will update us as well.

  52. 52 Rich Moore Mar 2nd, 2011 at 4:56 am

    I have met Billy several times, for a guy with his celebrity he is very down to earth.
    He is so innovative with the things he comes up with on the bikes he builds.
    I know he is devastated over his actions, and will make the best of the time he is serving.

    Rich

  53. 53 Ade in the UK May 9th, 2011 at 8:24 am

    Can some one pleas answer this question, is Lane under a life time driving ban? will he never legaly be permited to ride a motorcycle again?

  54. 54 DannyBoy May 16th, 2011 at 9:39 am

    @ Ade, there Is no such law In the US. Driving Is a privilage not a right. Most states will put a 1 to 3 year revocation on a case like this and he will be able to drive again as long as he abides by the rules.

    I’ve met Billy and hung out with him Sturgis 05. He was a great guy. But the dude killed another biker while he was blasted drunk. Six years? That’s nothing! Image If he had killed your father or mother…With good time he will be out very soon.

  55. 55 john Jul 3rd, 2011 at 9:55 am

    He was drunk and Killed a fellow biker…..THAT … is all there is to this story. Do you thin the family of the man he killed would be glad he is teaching inmates how to fix metal….. WOW…. I don’t know him, but the story say’s everything…..all I can think about ( as a rider myself for over 30 years ) is THIS IS JUST WHAT WE WE AS RIDERS FEAR….. A DRUNK WHO DRIVES LIKE A NUT-JOB

  56. 56 dunhill Aug 10th, 2011 at 2:33 am

    I hope Mr lane can somehow have this tragedy help save lives of others in the future… Can he? Yes…will he? IDK. I have done a lot of bad in my life (No… I’ve never killed a man driving drunk) and I’ve turned my life around. I live my life with one objective and that’s to leave this world a better place cause I was here. Have I done that yet? Again IDK but I am trying.with his celebrity, skills and fame he still has a chance to leave the world a better place cause he was here. I hope he finds a way to. I was pleased he did not plead not guilty or from what I understand ever really try to ‘beat the case’.

    I am sorry for the man he killed family and must say they are better people than I am. I wish them the best and am happy FOR THEM that they could find some peace in forgiveness…I could not have.

    Many lives destroyed.

    Oh and I don’t come from a religious place with any of my comments. These are just my personal views.

  57. 57 Anonymous Sep 26th, 2011 at 10:04 pm

    What about the guy who died? Not too many people talk about him.

Comments are currently closed.
Cyril Huze