NCJ Number
205074
Date Published
2004
Length
110 pages
Annotation
This pocketguide is a reference tool that can be carried daily by law enforcement officers to help them identify the signs and symbols of gangs anywhere.
Abstract
A brief history of gangs in America is followed by a section on understanding and analyzing gang graffiti. This section explains a gang's various purposes in using graffiti, for example, to mark the gang's turf and to send a message. The law enforcement response to graffiti should be to photograph it; analyze it while it is intact; remove it; keep an archive of the photo; document the colors used, the gang "tag" names, and the indicators of "beef" or violence; and get involved in or create an anti-graffiti program to cover over all graffiti. This section is followed by instructions on how to identify a gang member by attitude, demeanor, clothing, symbols, colors, grooming, and gang customs. A separate section provides details on gang symbols. Depictions of gang symbols are provided for the following gangs: Bloods, Crips, People Nation, Folk Nation, Latino gangs, prison gangs, Asian gangs, outlaw motorcycle gangs, hate groups/extremists, occult groups, terrorist groups, and miscellaneous gangs. Other sections of this pocketguide provide information on gang colors; sports apparel and designer clothing; a reference for symbols, phrases, and words; and specific gangs. The pocketguide concludes with information on products, services, and seminars that can help law enforcement officers deal with gangs.