NCJ Number
90433
Date Published
1982
Length
195 pages
Annotation
Evidence of organized crime in Ohio is irrefutable. The State's economy is deprived of millions of dollars of untaxed revenue due to organized crime.
Abstract
Organized crime is active in attempts to take over liquor establishments, illegal and 'off-paper' sales of various weapons, the importation and sale of narcotics, the vending and video arcade businesses, county and neighborhood carnivals, prostitution and massage parlors, loansharking, and arson. While organized crime knows no geographical boundaries or jurisdictional limitations, law enforcement officials enjoy no such latitude. There is no single law enforcement agency in Ohio that has statewide power to investigate organized crime and arrest the perpetrators. Recommendations to provide Ohio law enforcement with the proper tools to fight organized crime include passage of a Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organization (RICO) bill, passage of legislation that would authorize specified law enforcement officers to apply for and execute interception warrants, and establishment of an Ohio Crime Commission. Other recommendations focus on improved coordination between law enforcement agencies, a witness protection program, and other legislation. Maps, charts, and bylaws are provided. (Author summary modified)