NCJ Number
186249
Date Published
1999
Length
89 pages
Annotation
This report presents an overview of the types of gangs in Texas and results of a survey that received responses from 34.9 percent of the police chiefs, sheriffs, district attorneys, county attorneys, and school district police departments to which the surveys were mailed.
Abstract
The survey asked for responses based on 1997 data and received mailed or faxed written responses during late 1998 and early 1999. Fifty percent of the participants reported that gangs were not much of a problem in their jurisdiction; another 22 percent reported that gangs were present but were not a serious problem. The largest cities in Texas accounted for the majority of gangs and gang members. Gangs masquerading as car clubs and party and rave crews existed mainly in larger urban jurisdictions. Prison gangs were a strong influence in larger jurisdictions and had a moderate influence in smaller jurisdictions. Drug dealing was the criminal activity that prison gangs most influenced. Only larger jurisdictions reported the influence of outlaw motorcycle gangs. Graffiti, theft/burglary, assaults, and drug trafficking were the most common gang-related offenses. More than half of the agencies reported that gang activity was somewhat of a problem on their school campuses; 11 percent reported having a serious problem. Agencies of all sizes most often cited community policing as the most effective and preventive approach. Other approaches included graffiti abatement, code enforcement/nuisance abatement, and interagency cooperation. Record-keeping on gangs and gang-related activity varied widely. Figures; tables; discussion of the Scanning, Analysis, Response, and Assessment (SARA) model for addressing gang problems; descriptions of current response programs; and appended instrument, tables, text of legislation, and background information