NCJ Number
157295
Date Published
1995
Length
76 pages
Annotation
This report describes the role of street gangs as a major cultural and economic force in communities in the Chicago area and discusses their background, power, and emerging political influence as a new form of organized crime.
Abstract
The Chicago area has about 125 street gangs, including between 30,000 and 50,000 hardcore gang members and 100,000 hardcore and marginal members in the city. Street gangs represent all ethnic groups. Although they currently lack the political backing and sophistication of the older forms of organized crime, they are likely to become empowered if the community remains apathetic. Thus, it is vital that the investigation and prosecution of both traditional and nontraditional organized crime continue. In addition, parents and educators must become aware of and address the potential warning signs of gang activity, as well as the advanced signs of gang membership. Young people also must learn the futility of gang involvement and the likelihood that it will lead to death or imprisonment. Descriptions of gang recruitment methods, specific gangs, symbols, clothing, hand signs, structures, and convicted gang members and lists of telephone numbers and suburban gang investigators to contact for assistance in addressing gang problems