NCJ Number
177903
Journal
Crime & Delinquency Volume: 45 Issue: 2 Dated: April 1999 Pages: 208-241
Date Published
1999
Length
34 pages
Annotation
This literature review aims to help fill the information void on youth gang homicide by summarizing data and results of empirical studies.
Abstract
Information on the topic is summarized in five areas. First, the growth in youth gang homicide is assessed. Second, the distinguishing characteristics of gang homicides are reviewed. Third, studies of the relationship between youth gang homicides and drug trafficking are examined; and fourth, promising programs and intervention strategies are reviewed. Fifth, program and policy implications are discussed. The assessment of youth-gang homicide trends concludes that although apparently gang-related homicides have increased in the past 30 years, more precise comparisons cannot be made at this time because of data limitations. Regarding the distinguishing characteristics of youth gang homicides, they are unique in several respects. Block's research (1993) on Chicago homicides shows that increases and decreases in gang-motivated homicides occur in spurts and thus do not correspond with the city's overall homicide trend. Youth gang homicides are also distinct from nongang homicides in terms of the setting in which they occur and participant characteristics. Drive-by shootings and the use of firearms also distinguish them from other homicides committed by juveniles. Several studies of youth gang homicides and drug trafficking have been conducted in Los Angeles and Chicago. These are reviewed in this article, followed by summaries of less comprehensive studies or assessments in Boston, Minneapolis, Miami, Houston, and St. Louis. The author's overall conclusion from these studies is that drug-related homicides that involve youth gangs represent only a small proportion of all gang-related homicides. A review of promising programs and intervention strategies that target youth gang homicides shows that such homicides can be prevented and reduced. 2 tables and 17 references