Week 1: Introduction to Criminal Organizations

Week 1 Discussion

Shawn Numalu Esco

Walden University

Dr. Mike Klemp-North, Instructor

CRJS-4103D-11/CRJS-4103-11-Drugs Gangs Org Crime2017 Spring Qtr 02/27-05/21-PT5

April 13th, 2017

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Week 1 Discussion

Gangs and organized crime groups do indeed use violence to obtain a certain reputation.

Using violence, especially in a public manner, have a strong effect on those living in gang

saturated areas. The best way I have found to describe a gang is, "A group or association of three

or more persons who may have a common identifying sign, symbol, or name and who

individually or collectively engage in, or have engaged in, criminal activity which creates an

atmosphere of fear and intimidation. Criminal activity includes juvenile acts that if committed by

an adult would be a crime.", (National Gang Center, n. d.). The use of violence by gangs and

organized crime groups is a common tactic when it comes to obtain territory, reputation and most

of all, fear.

"An organized crime is any crime committed by a person occupying, in an established division of

labor, a position designed for the commission of crimes providing that such division of labor

include at least one position for a corrupter, one position for one to be corrupted, and one

position for an enforcer.", (InvestigativeSciencesJournal.org, 2013).

When a gang has its neighborhood afraid, they can practically do what they want and not

worry about legal repercussions; because no one calls the police and no one ever sees anything.

Gangs and organized crime groups both present serious challenges for law enforcement

agencies worldwide. As it pertains to the structure and activities of gangs or organized crime,

each group can take on the characteristics of other groups; resulting in rivalries.

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Occasionally, rival gangs or organized crime groups with come together and form an alliance in

order to create turmoil and chaos towards efforts made by law enforcement.

I think the biggest comparison street gangs and organized crime groups is the use of

intimidation to attain certain goals. Even within their own ranks, at times people are made

examples of in order to earn respect. A significant difference between the two social groups

would be the actions performed by the groups, which can determine whether a street gang has

evolved into an organized crime group.

I never realized the amount of corruption in the form of organized crime that lies beneath.

Politicians, police, and city and state government alike are not immune to the influences of

organized crime. Makes one wonder if anyone is above influence; or if there are any active crime

syndicates currently influencing the United States government.

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References

InvestigativeSciencesJournal.org staff, (2013). Street gangs, organized crime and

terrorists; differentiating criminal organizations. Retrieved from

http://investigativesciencesjournal.org/

National Gang Center staff, (n. d.). What is a gang? Retrieved from

https://www.nationalgangcenter.gov/

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