NCJ Number
147310
Date Published
1986
Length
343 pages
Annotation
This paper is a descriptive and empirical analysis and assessment of the demographic background and delinquent behavior of a youth gang known as Stoners. The Stoners are contrasted with traditional street gang members.
Abstract
Both groups included in this study reside in the unincorporated area of Los Angeles County commonly referred to as East Los Angeles. The Stoners are adolescents who are involved in or profess a belief in the occult sciences and/or Satanism. They are deeply involved in heavy metal rock music and street crime. To be included in this study, the minors from each group must have been arrested at least once in East Los Angeles and subsequently referred to the Los Angeles County Probation Department. The study contains a brief historical review of relevant criminological literature as it relates to the traditional street gang, and a section on the effects of conventional religion on delinquent behavior. There is a chapter on the occult sciences and Satanism. There are interviews with members of the Stoners, as well as with criminal justice practitioners, educators, and members of the clergy and the community. There are statistical findings on the Stoners' demographic backgrounds and delinquent behavior as compared to traditional gang members. The level of violent crimes committed by each group is a primary focus of the study. Figures, illustrations, tables, endnotes, appendixes, bibliography