Defining the Community Youth Gang
The term “gang” carries with it many meanings and evokes a number of images for people. Discussing some of their different characteristics as well as different perceptions about them may contribute to a working definition of gangs. The success or failure of communitywide attempts to address gang problems is likely to rest, in part, on how the problems are understood and diagnosed.
The media, the public, and community agencies use the term “gang” more loosely than the law enforcement community. Politicians and law enforcement officials tend to rely on legal parameters such as criminal behavior to define what constitutes a gang. Unfortunately, this perception fails to recognize that many gangs do not engage solely in criminal acts, or even highly visible ones. Compounding the definition problem is the inconsistent use of the term “gang related.” Police may classify an incident as gang related simply because the individual involved is a gang member.
There is no consensus on a standardized definition of a gang, but there is some agreement on the basic elements. Maxson and Klein developed three criteria for defining a street gang:
q Community recognition of the group.
q The group’s recognition of itself as a distinct group of adolescents or young adults.
q The group’s involvement in enough illegal activities to get a consistent negative response from law enforcement and neighborhood residents. The centerpiece of Richard Cloward and Lloyd Ohlin’s typology of gangs is the concept of differential opportunity. According to this concept, individuals may become involved in gang life and crime simply because legitimate means of success are unavailable to them. Cloward and Ohlin also see a differential opportunity structure for illegitimate means of achieving success. The significance of this finding is that all opportunities—legal and illegal—are often unavailable to most inner-city youth.
Cloward and Ohlin conclude that young people are likely to join one of three types of gangs—criminal, conflict, or retreatist—because of differential opportunity. Criminal gangs are likely to exist in stable low-income areas where there are close relationships between adolescents and adult criminals. Conflict gangs develop in communities with dilapidated conditions and transient populations. When criminal opportunities do not exist, conflict gangs fight to gain social status and protect their integrity and honor. Retreatist gangs do not possess the skills to be considered criminal gangs. They retreat into a role on the fringe of society that usually involves heavy drug use and withdrawal from social interaction.
Addressing Community Gang Problems: A Practical Guide
A number of other gangs do not fit neatly into Cloward and Ohlin’s typology.
Tagger crews consist of youth banded together to create graffiti. The main reason for tagging, which is a form of vandalism, is to gain respect from fellow artists and, more important, from members of other tagger crews.
Communities can begin to develop strategies and programs to address their specific gang problems by analyzing the types of gangs affecting their neighborhoods. Communities must recognize that the ways in which gangs are defined will, to a large degree, determine the extent of the gang problem in a neighborhood. Moreover, even when one definition is used, such as the law enforcement definition, this too varies from one jurisdiction to another.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Monday, July 13, 2009
Monday, August 11, 2008
Consequence of Gang Involvement
Consequence of Gang Involvement
Gang membership can severely hurt one's health and future.
Gang members may be killed or injured.
Many put themselves in danger of disease, prison, and death.
Many become dependent on alcohol and drugs.
Gang members usually drop out of school, limiting their chances for higher education or good employment.
They are likely to be involved in crime throughout the rest of their lives.
They may commit serious and violent crimes that lead to lengthy jail time.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Gang membership can severely hurt one's health and future.
Gang members may be killed or injured.
Many put themselves in danger of disease, prison, and death.
Many become dependent on alcohol and drugs.
Gang members usually drop out of school, limiting their chances for higher education or good employment.
They are likely to be involved in crime throughout the rest of their lives.
They may commit serious and violent crimes that lead to lengthy jail time.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Joining a gang
Joining a gang
Joining a gang is like entering enemy territory. Belonging to a gang has a warlike existence where beatings and shootings happen all the time. Typical scenarios of joining a gang involve violence and rape. Boys usually have to fight several other gang members at the same time-this is called being "rolled-in" or "walking the line." Girls may be forced to have sex with several gang members or fight other female gang members. New members may be required to prove themselves by beating up an innocent person, robbing a store, or shooting someone-including drive-by shootings. If you break the rules after joining a gang, your punishment may be death.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Joining a gang is like entering enemy territory. Belonging to a gang has a warlike existence where beatings and shootings happen all the time. Typical scenarios of joining a gang involve violence and rape. Boys usually have to fight several other gang members at the same time-this is called being "rolled-in" or "walking the line." Girls may be forced to have sex with several gang members or fight other female gang members. New members may be required to prove themselves by beating up an innocent person, robbing a store, or shooting someone-including drive-by shootings. If you break the rules after joining a gang, your punishment may be death.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Learn More about Gangs
Learn More about Gangs
Gangs can be organized around race or ethnic group, money making activities, or territory.
Gangs usually claim a particular area of town which they call their "turf.” They spend much of their time fighting rival gangs to keep them out of this territory.
Most gang members are males ranging in age from 8 to 22 years old. Females, especially Asian and Hispanic, are moving away from the traditional role of being merely girlfriends of gang members and are forming their own gangs.
Gangs wear particular items, styles, brands, or colors of clothing. Some gangs wear bandannas of a certain color or baseball caps of a specific team. Some gangs mark their bodies with tattoos with their gang symbol or name.
Gangs often use special hands signs or handshakes to tell others the gang to which they belong.
"Gangsta” rap paints a realistic picture of daily gang activity. The lyrics glorify violence, abuse of women, and disrespect for authority, especially the police.
Contrary to what you may think, gangs are not around to help you. These groups of young people break the law, beat up people, and murder.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Gangs can be organized around race or ethnic group, money making activities, or territory.
Gangs usually claim a particular area of town which they call their "turf.” They spend much of their time fighting rival gangs to keep them out of this territory.
Most gang members are males ranging in age from 8 to 22 years old. Females, especially Asian and Hispanic, are moving away from the traditional role of being merely girlfriends of gang members and are forming their own gangs.
Gangs wear particular items, styles, brands, or colors of clothing. Some gangs wear bandannas of a certain color or baseball caps of a specific team. Some gangs mark their bodies with tattoos with their gang symbol or name.
Gangs often use special hands signs or handshakes to tell others the gang to which they belong.
"Gangsta” rap paints a realistic picture of daily gang activity. The lyrics glorify violence, abuse of women, and disrespect for authority, especially the police.
Contrary to what you may think, gangs are not around to help you. These groups of young people break the law, beat up people, and murder.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Friday, August 8, 2008
Helping America’s Youth Initiative
Helping America’s Youth Initiative
In his 2005 State of the Union Address, President Bush announced a broad effort to engage all Americans in helping young people become healthy adults. He asked First Lady Laura Bush to lead this important effort, which became known as the Helping America’s Youth initiative. Helping America’s Youth is a nationwide effort to raise awareness about the challenges facing our youth, particularly at-risk boys, and to motivate caring adults to connect with youth in three key areas: family, school, and community.
Research has shown that supportive relationships are crucial to an adolescent’s well-being. By becoming actively involved in the lives of young people in their community, grandparents, teachers, mentors, clergy members, neighbors, coaches, and other community members can support parents and help youth become community assets, making better choices that lead to healthier, more successful lives.
The Helping America’s Youth Web site at www.helpingamericasyouth.gov provides information about the initiative and access to the Community Guide to Helping America’s Youth, an online resource to help communities assess their needs and resources and link them to effective programs to help youth in their neighborhoods and towns. The online tool helps determine what works best in order to make positive differences in children’s lives
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
In his 2005 State of the Union Address, President Bush announced a broad effort to engage all Americans in helping young people become healthy adults. He asked First Lady Laura Bush to lead this important effort, which became known as the Helping America’s Youth initiative. Helping America’s Youth is a nationwide effort to raise awareness about the challenges facing our youth, particularly at-risk boys, and to motivate caring adults to connect with youth in three key areas: family, school, and community.
Research has shown that supportive relationships are crucial to an adolescent’s well-being. By becoming actively involved in the lives of young people in their community, grandparents, teachers, mentors, clergy members, neighbors, coaches, and other community members can support parents and help youth become community assets, making better choices that lead to healthier, more successful lives.
The Helping America’s Youth Web site at www.helpingamericasyouth.gov provides information about the initiative and access to the Community Guide to Helping America’s Youth, an online resource to help communities assess their needs and resources and link them to effective programs to help youth in their neighborhoods and towns. The online tool helps determine what works best in order to make positive differences in children’s lives
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Miscellaneous Gang Legislation
Miscellaneous Gang Legislation
New York S 120.06. Gang Assault in the Second Degree
A person is guilty of gang assault in the second degree when, with intent to cause physical injury to another person and when aided by two or more other persons actually present, he causes serious physical injury to such person or to a third person. Gang assault in the second degree is a class C felony.
New York S 120.07. Gang Assault in the First Degree
A person is guilty of gang assault in the first degree when, with intent to cause serious physical injury to another person and when aided by two or more other persons actually present, he causes serious physical injury to such person or to a third person. Gang assault in the first degree is a class B felony.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
New York S 120.06. Gang Assault in the Second Degree
A person is guilty of gang assault in the second degree when, with intent to cause physical injury to another person and when aided by two or more other persons actually present, he causes serious physical injury to such person or to a third person. Gang assault in the second degree is a class C felony.
New York S 120.07. Gang Assault in the First Degree
A person is guilty of gang assault in the first degree when, with intent to cause serious physical injury to another person and when aided by two or more other persons actually present, he causes serious physical injury to such person or to a third person. Gang assault in the first degree is a class B felony.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Graffiti (2)
Graffiti (2)
New York 60.28. Authorized Disposition; Making Graffiti and Possession of Graffiti Instruments
When a person is convicted of an offense defined in section 145.60 or 145.65 of this chapter, or of an attempt to commit such offense, and the sentence imposed by the court for such conviction includes a sentence of probation or conditional discharge, the court shall, where appropriate, include as a condition of such sentence the defendant’s successful participation in a graffiti removal program pursuant to paragraph (h) of subdivision two of section 65.10 of this chapter.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
New York 60.28. Authorized Disposition; Making Graffiti and Possession of Graffiti Instruments
When a person is convicted of an offense defined in section 145.60 or 145.65 of this chapter, or of an attempt to commit such offense, and the sentence imposed by the court for such conviction includes a sentence of probation or conditional discharge, the court shall, where appropriate, include as a condition of such sentence the defendant’s successful participation in a graffiti removal program pursuant to paragraph (h) of subdivision two of section 65.10 of this chapter.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Graffiti
Graffiti
New York 145.60. Making Graffiti
1. For purposes of this section, the term "graffiti" shall mean the etching, painting, covering, drawing upon or otherwise placing of a mark upon public or private property with intent to damage such property.
2. No person shall make graffiti of any type on any building, public or private, or any other property real or personal owned by any person, firm or corporation or any public agency or instrumentality, without the express permission of the owner or operator of said property.
Making graffiti is a class A misdemeanor.
New York 145.65. Possession of Graffiti Instruments
A person is guilty of possession of graffiti instruments when he possesses any tool, instrument, article, substance, solution or other compound designed or commonly used to etch, paint, cover, draw upon or otherwise place a mark upon a piece of property which that person has no permission or authority to etch, paint, cover, draw upon or otherwise mark, under circumstances evincing an intent to use same in order to damage such property.
Possession of graffiti instruments is a class B misdemeanor.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
New York 145.60. Making Graffiti
1. For purposes of this section, the term "graffiti" shall mean the etching, painting, covering, drawing upon or otherwise placing of a mark upon public or private property with intent to damage such property.
2. No person shall make graffiti of any type on any building, public or private, or any other property real or personal owned by any person, firm or corporation or any public agency or instrumentality, without the express permission of the owner or operator of said property.
Making graffiti is a class A misdemeanor.
New York 145.65. Possession of Graffiti Instruments
A person is guilty of possession of graffiti instruments when he possesses any tool, instrument, article, substance, solution or other compound designed or commonly used to etch, paint, cover, draw upon or otherwise place a mark upon a piece of property which that person has no permission or authority to etch, paint, cover, draw upon or otherwise mark, under circumstances evincing an intent to use same in order to damage such property.
Possession of graffiti instruments is a class B misdemeanor.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Monday, August 4, 2008
Gang-Related Definitions
Gang-Related Definitions
New York S 120.06. Gang Assault in the Second Degree
A person is guilty of gang assault in the second degree when, with intent to cause physical injury to another person and when aided by two or more other persons actually present, he causes serious physical injury to such person or to a third person. Gang assault in the second degree is a class C felony.
New York S 120.07. Gang Assault in the First Degree
A person is guilty of gang assault in the first degree when, with intent to cause serious physical injury to another person and when aided by two or more other persons actually present, he causes serious physical injury to such person or to a third person. Gang assault in the first degree is a class B felony.
New York 9 NYCRR § 301.3. Types of Activities Not Allowed
The following activities are not allowed on State property:
(d) Gang activity as defined herein:
(1) The term gang as used herein means any ongoing organization, association, or group of three or more persons, whether formal or informal, having as one of its primary activities the commission of one or more criminal acts, which has an identifiable name or with the identifying sign or symbol, and whose members individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in a pattern of gang activity.
(2) The term gang member means any individual who is part of, associated with, or otherwise affiliated with a gang as defined in paragraph (1) of this subdivision.
(3) Gang activity means the commission by a gang member, in a singular commission, attempt to commit, conspiring to commit, or the solicitation of a criminal act, on State property in the presence of two or more other gang members.
(4) A pattern of gang activity means the commission, attempt to commit, conspiring to commit, or solicitation of two or more criminal acts, provided the criminal acts were committed on separate dates or by two or more persons who are members of, or belong to, the same gang.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
New York S 120.06. Gang Assault in the Second Degree
A person is guilty of gang assault in the second degree when, with intent to cause physical injury to another person and when aided by two or more other persons actually present, he causes serious physical injury to such person or to a third person. Gang assault in the second degree is a class C felony.
New York S 120.07. Gang Assault in the First Degree
A person is guilty of gang assault in the first degree when, with intent to cause serious physical injury to another person and when aided by two or more other persons actually present, he causes serious physical injury to such person or to a third person. Gang assault in the first degree is a class B felony.
New York 9 NYCRR § 301.3. Types of Activities Not Allowed
The following activities are not allowed on State property:
(d) Gang activity as defined herein:
(1) The term gang as used herein means any ongoing organization, association, or group of three or more persons, whether formal or informal, having as one of its primary activities the commission of one or more criminal acts, which has an identifiable name or with the identifying sign or symbol, and whose members individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in a pattern of gang activity.
(2) The term gang member means any individual who is part of, associated with, or otherwise affiliated with a gang as defined in paragraph (1) of this subdivision.
(3) Gang activity means the commission by a gang member, in a singular commission, attempt to commit, conspiring to commit, or the solicitation of a criminal act, on State property in the presence of two or more other gang members.
(4) A pattern of gang activity means the commission, attempt to commit, conspiring to commit, or solicitation of two or more criminal acts, provided the criminal acts were committed on separate dates or by two or more persons who are members of, or belong to, the same gang.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Sunday, August 3, 2008
What Can I Do to Help Stop Violence in School?
The best option of all is to stay out of gangs in the first place.
What Can I Do to Help Stop Violence in School?
Gangs are one of the most violent influences that affect our schools today. We can help stop violence in our schools with this list of ideas. Some require only individual action; some require a concerted effort. Some address immediate issues; others address the problems that cause violence.
1. Adopt a school. Help students, faculty, and staff to promote a sense of community in the school and with the larger community through involvement in a wide range of programs and activities.
2. Help to strengthen links between school services and the network of community services that can help students and families facing problems.
3. Join with school and law enforcement in creating and sustaining safe corridors for students traveling to and from school. Help with efforts to identify and eliminate neighborhood trouble spots.
4. Help students through such opportunities as job skills development, entrepreneurship opportunities, and internships.
5. Encourage employees to work with students in skills training, youth group leadership, mentoring, coaching, and similar one-to-one and small group activities. Make your facilities available for these activities when possible.
6. Provide anger management, stress relief, and conflict resolution training for your employees. They can help build an anti-violence climate at home, at school, and in the community. You might gain a more productive working environment, too!
7. Speak up in support of funding and effective implementation of programs and other resources that help schools develop an effective set of violence prevention strategies.
8. Offer your professional skills in educating students on costs and effects of violence in the community (including their school). Public health personnel, trauma specialists, defense and prosecuting attorneys, and judges are among those with important messages to deliver.
9. Help employees who are parents to meet with teachers by providing flexible hours or time off; encourage employee involvement in sponsoring or coaching students in school and after-school activities.
10. Develop a non-violent competition, including speech, dance, painting, drawing, singing, instrumental music, acting, play writing, and other creative arts. Get youth to help suggest prizes. Make it a community celebration.
11. Report crimes or suspicious activities to police immediately. Encourage employees and families to do the same.
12. Establish business policies that explicitly reject violent behavior by employees or others on the premises.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
What Can I Do to Help Stop Violence in School?
Gangs are one of the most violent influences that affect our schools today. We can help stop violence in our schools with this list of ideas. Some require only individual action; some require a concerted effort. Some address immediate issues; others address the problems that cause violence.
1. Adopt a school. Help students, faculty, and staff to promote a sense of community in the school and with the larger community through involvement in a wide range of programs and activities.
2. Help to strengthen links between school services and the network of community services that can help students and families facing problems.
3. Join with school and law enforcement in creating and sustaining safe corridors for students traveling to and from school. Help with efforts to identify and eliminate neighborhood trouble spots.
4. Help students through such opportunities as job skills development, entrepreneurship opportunities, and internships.
5. Encourage employees to work with students in skills training, youth group leadership, mentoring, coaching, and similar one-to-one and small group activities. Make your facilities available for these activities when possible.
6. Provide anger management, stress relief, and conflict resolution training for your employees. They can help build an anti-violence climate at home, at school, and in the community. You might gain a more productive working environment, too!
7. Speak up in support of funding and effective implementation of programs and other resources that help schools develop an effective set of violence prevention strategies.
8. Offer your professional skills in educating students on costs and effects of violence in the community (including their school). Public health personnel, trauma specialists, defense and prosecuting attorneys, and judges are among those with important messages to deliver.
9. Help employees who are parents to meet with teachers by providing flexible hours or time off; encourage employee involvement in sponsoring or coaching students in school and after-school activities.
10. Develop a non-violent competition, including speech, dance, painting, drawing, singing, instrumental music, acting, play writing, and other creative arts. Get youth to help suggest prizes. Make it a community celebration.
11. Report crimes or suspicious activities to police immediately. Encourage employees and families to do the same.
12. Establish business policies that explicitly reject violent behavior by employees or others on the premises.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Friday, August 1, 2008
Common Myths about Gangs
Common Myths about Gangs
My gang will protect me, and I will feel safe.
Wrong! While you may believe that joining a gang will protect you from bullies or other gang members, being in a gang greatly increases your chances to be a target for rival gang members. You are far more likely to be injured or killed if you are in a gang. Many former gang members report that they had to change their lives dramatically as a gang member. They could no longer wear clothing they used to wear. They got into fights while attending school with rival gang members, and ended up dropping out of school. They felt unsafe going out of their neighborhoods, and they couldn't ever be sure where rivals might confront them. Even if they got out of gangs, their rivals didn't forget them. They still had many enemies who might hurt or kill them
Other people will respect me more if I am in a gang.
Wrong! Respect in many gangs really means fear. If you join a gang, you will constantly have to commit crimes in order to keep other gang members afraid of you. At any age, respect is something you can earn by getting an education and accomplishing goals in your life. Respect in the gang culture will go away the first time you fail to hurt someone who insults you or puts you down. That kind of respect isn't real, and it doesn't last.
Joining a gang means I'll have lots of friends.
You will have friends, but you'll also make lots of enemies--the members of rival gangs. Also, your friends who haven't joined the gang may stop wanting to be around you. Your gang may not approve if you have friends or date people outside the gang. They may question and test your loyalty, and insist that you hang out only with them.
My gang will be just like a family.
Wrong! Real families don't force people to commit crimes to get respect and love. Real families accept you and love you for who and what you are. Even if your family is having problems, being in a gang will not solve them--it will only make things worse. If you join a gang, your family members may become targets for rival gangs. Joining a gang will only increase the number of fights you have with your parents. You will eventually get into trouble with the law, and your parents and family members will be hurt and disappointed. You will set a bad example for your brothers and sisters. You will not find the kind of love you're looking for from a gang.
I'll make lots of money if I'm in a gang.
Most gang members make very little money being part of a gang. Those who do, usually end up doing time. Plus, if you're in a gang, it's far more likely that you'll drop out of school because of problems with rival gang members. Getting your education is the key to making money--not joining a gang.
I can never get out of my gang.
Wrong! Gang members decide to leave the gang lifestyle every day in cities around the U.S. It is a myth that the only way to leave a gang is by dying. Most gang members who leave are able to live normal lives, going to school and working just like everyone else. However, in some cases, getting out of a gang isn't easy, and you may have to leave your home, school or community in order to be safe. It IS easier to get into a gang than to get out of one, but you can choose to leave the gang life today.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
My gang will protect me, and I will feel safe.
Wrong! While you may believe that joining a gang will protect you from bullies or other gang members, being in a gang greatly increases your chances to be a target for rival gang members. You are far more likely to be injured or killed if you are in a gang. Many former gang members report that they had to change their lives dramatically as a gang member. They could no longer wear clothing they used to wear. They got into fights while attending school with rival gang members, and ended up dropping out of school. They felt unsafe going out of their neighborhoods, and they couldn't ever be sure where rivals might confront them. Even if they got out of gangs, their rivals didn't forget them. They still had many enemies who might hurt or kill them
Other people will respect me more if I am in a gang.
Wrong! Respect in many gangs really means fear. If you join a gang, you will constantly have to commit crimes in order to keep other gang members afraid of you. At any age, respect is something you can earn by getting an education and accomplishing goals in your life. Respect in the gang culture will go away the first time you fail to hurt someone who insults you or puts you down. That kind of respect isn't real, and it doesn't last.
Joining a gang means I'll have lots of friends.
You will have friends, but you'll also make lots of enemies--the members of rival gangs. Also, your friends who haven't joined the gang may stop wanting to be around you. Your gang may not approve if you have friends or date people outside the gang. They may question and test your loyalty, and insist that you hang out only with them.
My gang will be just like a family.
Wrong! Real families don't force people to commit crimes to get respect and love. Real families accept you and love you for who and what you are. Even if your family is having problems, being in a gang will not solve them--it will only make things worse. If you join a gang, your family members may become targets for rival gangs. Joining a gang will only increase the number of fights you have with your parents. You will eventually get into trouble with the law, and your parents and family members will be hurt and disappointed. You will set a bad example for your brothers and sisters. You will not find the kind of love you're looking for from a gang.
I'll make lots of money if I'm in a gang.
Most gang members make very little money being part of a gang. Those who do, usually end up doing time. Plus, if you're in a gang, it's far more likely that you'll drop out of school because of problems with rival gang members. Getting your education is the key to making money--not joining a gang.
I can never get out of my gang.
Wrong! Gang members decide to leave the gang lifestyle every day in cities around the U.S. It is a myth that the only way to leave a gang is by dying. Most gang members who leave are able to live normal lives, going to school and working just like everyone else. However, in some cases, getting out of a gang isn't easy, and you may have to leave your home, school or community in order to be safe. It IS easier to get into a gang than to get out of one, but you can choose to leave the gang life today.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
WARNING SIGNS (Gang Problem)
WARNING SIGNS (Gang Problem)
You should be concerned if your child:
Admits to gang involvement;
Is obsessed with one particular color of clothing or shows a desire for a particular logo over and over;
Wears sagging pants (this in and of itself is not indicative of gang activity);
Wears excessive jewelry with distinctive designs and may wear it only on either the right or left side of the body;
Is obsessed with gangster-influenced music, videos and movies to the point of imitation;
Withdraws from family with an accompanying change in demeanor;
Associates with undesirables and breaks parental rules consistently;
Develops an unusual desire for privacy and secrecy and may completely rearrange living quarters to create more privacy;
Uses hand signs while with friends and practices them at home;
Or there is evidence or the appearance of:
Physical injury (such as being beaten) and then child lies about the events surrounding the injury;
Peculiar drawings or language on school books (may appear later as tattoos or brands);
Unexplained cash or goods, i.e., clothing and jewelry; or &
Possible use of alcohol and drugs with attitude change.
Advise Your Children They Should Not:
Associate with gang members or "wannabe/gonnabe" gang members;
Identify or communicate with gangs;
Hang out near or where gangs congregate;
Wear gang-related clothing where gangs are known to gather or traverse;
Attend any party or social event sponsored by gangs or their associates;
Take part in any vandalism or graffiti activity.
The responses to the immediate questions below can help you tell if a kid is in a gang and what to do about it
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
You should be concerned if your child:
Admits to gang involvement;
Is obsessed with one particular color of clothing or shows a desire for a particular logo over and over;
Wears sagging pants (this in and of itself is not indicative of gang activity);
Wears excessive jewelry with distinctive designs and may wear it only on either the right or left side of the body;
Is obsessed with gangster-influenced music, videos and movies to the point of imitation;
Withdraws from family with an accompanying change in demeanor;
Associates with undesirables and breaks parental rules consistently;
Develops an unusual desire for privacy and secrecy and may completely rearrange living quarters to create more privacy;
Uses hand signs while with friends and practices them at home;
Or there is evidence or the appearance of:
Physical injury (such as being beaten) and then child lies about the events surrounding the injury;
Peculiar drawings or language on school books (may appear later as tattoos or brands);
Unexplained cash or goods, i.e., clothing and jewelry; or &
Possible use of alcohol and drugs with attitude change.
Advise Your Children They Should Not:
Associate with gang members or "wannabe/gonnabe" gang members;
Identify or communicate with gangs;
Hang out near or where gangs congregate;
Wear gang-related clothing where gangs are known to gather or traverse;
Attend any party or social event sponsored by gangs or their associates;
Take part in any vandalism or graffiti activity.
The responses to the immediate questions below can help you tell if a kid is in a gang and what to do about it
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Tips for Parents (Gang Problem)
Tips for Parents (Gang Problem)
Impress upon your child the importance of school and good grades.
Spend quality time with your children
Get involved in your child's school activities.
Establish rules, set limits and be consistent, firm and fair in punishment.
Encourage good study habits.
Respect your child's feelings and attitudes and help them develop self-esteem.
Watch closely for negative influences.
Improve your own self-esteem so your children can model themselves after the most important "role model"… YOU.
Tips for Parents/Educators
Help children develop self-control.
Help children deal appropriately with problems.
Get involved in community-oriented prevention and intervention programs. Urge others to become involved. Volunteer at your child's school. Gangs are a community problem and their influence does not stop at any particular boundary.
Listen to your children. Communicate with them about their concerns and fears.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Impress upon your child the importance of school and good grades.
Spend quality time with your children
Get involved in your child's school activities.
Establish rules, set limits and be consistent, firm and fair in punishment.
Encourage good study habits.
Respect your child's feelings and attitudes and help them develop self-esteem.
Watch closely for negative influences.
Improve your own self-esteem so your children can model themselves after the most important "role model"… YOU.
Tips for Parents/Educators
Help children develop self-control.
Help children deal appropriately with problems.
Get involved in community-oriented prevention and intervention programs. Urge others to become involved. Volunteer at your child's school. Gangs are a community problem and their influence does not stop at any particular boundary.
Listen to your children. Communicate with them about their concerns and fears.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Mexican/Salvadorian Gangs
Mexican/Salvadorian Gangs
Origin:California Mexican/Salvadorian street gangs have been broken up into two main factions. One faction is known as Southern 13's or Sur who are controlled by the Mexican Mafia. The other fraction is known as the Northern 14's or North who are controlled by the Nuestra Familia. The Sur and the Norte gangs have now expanded out of California and migrated west for various reasons. They wanted to expand their drug operation, trafficking networks and wanted to leave the violence behind. Some of these Gangs/Organizations even have international ties, i.e., the 18th Street Gang (XV3)(IVIII), Mara Salvatruche (MS) and the Florencia 13 (F13). These gangs have a traditional base as the case of the Maravilla gangs and the White Fence gangs of East Los Angeles that date back to the early 1900's.
The Mexican Gang:Members of the NYC were first noticed in 1996, when police responded to violent assaults occurring in weddings, baptisms, and birthday parties frequently by a large group of Mexican immigrants.
Mara Salvatruche:MS is comprised of mostly Salvadorians. The group was started to protect themselves from the largest street gang in California known as the 18th Street Gang (Mexican descent). Uninformed individuals mistakenly believe all Salvadorian gang members belong to MS. This is an unfair assessment since correctional staff has identified Salvadorian descendents claiming affiliation or membership with Mexican gang groups.
The meaning of Mara Salvatruche: Mara meant gang since it was used by the Maravilla gangs in East L.A. Salva for El Salvador and Truche for beware. MS has become known for their violent history. One of the terrifying aspects of the older veterans of MS members is that they have received Special Forces training from the CIA at their homeland. They have migrated to the United States. Some members have been identified to be former guerilla soldiers who were trained and considered experts at sabotage, explosive manufacturing and are familiar with high power automatic weapons. MS has continued its illegal activity and have been documented and observed in the following counties and states: Texas, Washington, D.C., Nebraska, Oregon, Washington State, Canada, Virginia, the five boroughs of New York, Nassau County, Suffolk County and also have been identified on Riker's Island.
Rank Structure:The Mexican Gangs are loosely structured. There is only one leader and few enforcers. Usually, the leader is the individual who started the gang and/or is the smartest; meaning educated here in the US and knowledgeable about the way of life on the streets. The enforcers, who are manipulative, are the wilder more brazen gang members willing to commit robberies, and assaults.
Identifiers:
Gang members usually dress in very baggy jeans or khaki pants with baggy shirts.
Gang members will tattoo the name or initials of their gangs on parts of their body. Tattoos such as the Mother Guadeloupe a happy/sad face and the words "mi vida loca" have been observed and could signify gang membership.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Origin:California Mexican/Salvadorian street gangs have been broken up into two main factions. One faction is known as Southern 13's or Sur who are controlled by the Mexican Mafia. The other fraction is known as the Northern 14's or North who are controlled by the Nuestra Familia. The Sur and the Norte gangs have now expanded out of California and migrated west for various reasons. They wanted to expand their drug operation, trafficking networks and wanted to leave the violence behind. Some of these Gangs/Organizations even have international ties, i.e., the 18th Street Gang (XV3)(IVIII), Mara Salvatruche (MS) and the Florencia 13 (F13). These gangs have a traditional base as the case of the Maravilla gangs and the White Fence gangs of East Los Angeles that date back to the early 1900's.
The Mexican Gang:Members of the NYC were first noticed in 1996, when police responded to violent assaults occurring in weddings, baptisms, and birthday parties frequently by a large group of Mexican immigrants.
Mara Salvatruche:MS is comprised of mostly Salvadorians. The group was started to protect themselves from the largest street gang in California known as the 18th Street Gang (Mexican descent). Uninformed individuals mistakenly believe all Salvadorian gang members belong to MS. This is an unfair assessment since correctional staff has identified Salvadorian descendents claiming affiliation or membership with Mexican gang groups.
The meaning of Mara Salvatruche: Mara meant gang since it was used by the Maravilla gangs in East L.A. Salva for El Salvador and Truche for beware. MS has become known for their violent history. One of the terrifying aspects of the older veterans of MS members is that they have received Special Forces training from the CIA at their homeland. They have migrated to the United States. Some members have been identified to be former guerilla soldiers who were trained and considered experts at sabotage, explosive manufacturing and are familiar with high power automatic weapons. MS has continued its illegal activity and have been documented and observed in the following counties and states: Texas, Washington, D.C., Nebraska, Oregon, Washington State, Canada, Virginia, the five boroughs of New York, Nassau County, Suffolk County and also have been identified on Riker's Island.
Rank Structure:The Mexican Gangs are loosely structured. There is only one leader and few enforcers. Usually, the leader is the individual who started the gang and/or is the smartest; meaning educated here in the US and knowledgeable about the way of life on the streets. The enforcers, who are manipulative, are the wilder more brazen gang members willing to commit robberies, and assaults.
Identifiers:
Gang members usually dress in very baggy jeans or khaki pants with baggy shirts.
Gang members will tattoo the name or initials of their gangs on parts of their body. Tattoos such as the Mother Guadeloupe a happy/sad face and the words "mi vida loca" have been observed and could signify gang membership.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
NYC CRIPS
NYC CRIPS
Origin: Crips were founded in west Los Angeles by Raymond Washington who organized local African American street gangs in the mid to late 60s. There are many theories. The terminology Crip derived from one such theory was from a motion picture "Tales of the Crypt". Other theories suggest that the name "Crip" evolved from the word "Crib" which was the name of a faction of the "Slausons" which was at the time the largest African American street gang in South Central Los Angeles. Yet another theory suggests that an identifier for the Crips was a walking cane, producing the word "Crip" from the word "Crippled".
During the 1980's several sets of the "Crips" developed strong-holds in California and rapidly migrated to the East Coast. Sets are currently active in New York, New Jersey, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Virginia. Crips arrived in New York in the early 90's and mainly resided in an area known as Harlem. They fashioned the "Harlem Mafia Crips" and helped establish several other "Crip" sets such as the Rollin 30's Crips, 92 Hoover Crips and the Rollin 60 Crips. Today there are hundreds of Crip sets operating throughout the five boroughs and neighboring counties.
Philosophy:Crips believe in representing their set often described by gang members as Volume 2. Representing is expressed by placing graffiti and tagging in the neighborhood where their set dominates or they want their set to dominate. Crips represent by a show of colors and bang from the left. They believe that it is all about making money. Status is often achieved by the amount of money a particular member generates for his set.
Membership:Originally "Crips" were primarily African American males and females ranging from age 12 to their early 20's. As they migrated throughout the United States they became a multi-racial gang and have no real age limitations. The initiation process is referred to as "locing-in" or "courting". A male who wants to become a member of a specific "Crip" set must commit a crime in the presence of a LOC (male Crip member). Common crimes committed include: drug dealing, drive by shootings, extortion's, murders, etc. Some sets allow members of the organization to be physically "jumped-in" by members of that set. They refer to this practice as the "Kangaroo walk" or "bullpen". Female gang members are known as Loc-ets and similar to their blood counterparts are "jumped-in" or "sexed in" by multiple members of that set.
Rank Structure:
There is no common leadership or council who can direct multiple Crip sets. Those Crips who influence others often attain leadership status. O.G. (Original Gangster) status is achieved through a reputation of banging and representing for an extended period of time.
Communication: Crips are known to communicate by using hand signals, code words, writing in code, wearing clothing in a certain fashion and the use of graffiti. Example: The word COLORS would have a slash or line placed through the center of the O and the L because these letters are used in the spelling of the word BLOOD. Crips when writing the word BROOKLYN would replace the B with a C as such "CROOKLYN".
Common Tattoos:
Tattoos usually indicate set affiliation (U.G.C.), Volume 2 (representing your set), eight ball (kinship we have with Folk Nation), Six point star (Life, Love, Loyalty, Honor, Peace, Respect), coded numbers indicating set representation, etc.
Identifiers:
Six known Crip colors are: Light Blue, Blue, Gray (war), Orange, Black, Purple (O.G. or assassin), White.
Clothing is worn in combination with the colors listed above. Crips refer to each other as cousins or cuzz when conversing with other Crips. Crips also may wear a blue and clear beads combination around their neck and/or wrist. Crips are in alliance with Folk Nation. Crip graffiti symbols include the 6 point star, a pitch fork pointing upward, a rabbit with his right ear folded down, "C" with upwards arrow, etc.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Origin: Crips were founded in west Los Angeles by Raymond Washington who organized local African American street gangs in the mid to late 60s. There are many theories. The terminology Crip derived from one such theory was from a motion picture "Tales of the Crypt". Other theories suggest that the name "Crip" evolved from the word "Crib" which was the name of a faction of the "Slausons" which was at the time the largest African American street gang in South Central Los Angeles. Yet another theory suggests that an identifier for the Crips was a walking cane, producing the word "Crip" from the word "Crippled".
During the 1980's several sets of the "Crips" developed strong-holds in California and rapidly migrated to the East Coast. Sets are currently active in New York, New Jersey, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Virginia. Crips arrived in New York in the early 90's and mainly resided in an area known as Harlem. They fashioned the "Harlem Mafia Crips" and helped establish several other "Crip" sets such as the Rollin 30's Crips, 92 Hoover Crips and the Rollin 60 Crips. Today there are hundreds of Crip sets operating throughout the five boroughs and neighboring counties.
Philosophy:Crips believe in representing their set often described by gang members as Volume 2. Representing is expressed by placing graffiti and tagging in the neighborhood where their set dominates or they want their set to dominate. Crips represent by a show of colors and bang from the left. They believe that it is all about making money. Status is often achieved by the amount of money a particular member generates for his set.
Membership:Originally "Crips" were primarily African American males and females ranging from age 12 to their early 20's. As they migrated throughout the United States they became a multi-racial gang and have no real age limitations. The initiation process is referred to as "locing-in" or "courting". A male who wants to become a member of a specific "Crip" set must commit a crime in the presence of a LOC (male Crip member). Common crimes committed include: drug dealing, drive by shootings, extortion's, murders, etc. Some sets allow members of the organization to be physically "jumped-in" by members of that set. They refer to this practice as the "Kangaroo walk" or "bullpen". Female gang members are known as Loc-ets and similar to their blood counterparts are "jumped-in" or "sexed in" by multiple members of that set.
Rank Structure:
There is no common leadership or council who can direct multiple Crip sets. Those Crips who influence others often attain leadership status. O.G. (Original Gangster) status is achieved through a reputation of banging and representing for an extended period of time.
Communication: Crips are known to communicate by using hand signals, code words, writing in code, wearing clothing in a certain fashion and the use of graffiti. Example: The word COLORS would have a slash or line placed through the center of the O and the L because these letters are used in the spelling of the word BLOOD. Crips when writing the word BROOKLYN would replace the B with a C as such "CROOKLYN".
Common Tattoos:
Tattoos usually indicate set affiliation (U.G.C.), Volume 2 (representing your set), eight ball (kinship we have with Folk Nation), Six point star (Life, Love, Loyalty, Honor, Peace, Respect), coded numbers indicating set representation, etc.
Identifiers:
Six known Crip colors are: Light Blue, Blue, Gray (war), Orange, Black, Purple (O.G. or assassin), White.
Clothing is worn in combination with the colors listed above. Crips refer to each other as cousins or cuzz when conversing with other Crips. Crips also may wear a blue and clear beads combination around their neck and/or wrist. Crips are in alliance with Folk Nation. Crip graffiti symbols include the 6 point star, a pitch fork pointing upward, a rabbit with his right ear folded down, "C" with upwards arrow, etc.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Monday, July 28, 2008
UBN Gang
UBN Gang
Origin: East Coast Bloods were founded on Rikers Island in 1993 by Omar Porter (O.G. Mack) and Leonard McKenzie (O.G. Deadeye). The duo met on Riker's Island while they were both being detained in the George Motchen Detention Center also known as C-73. These two detainees formed the first two sets of what is now known as the East Coast Bloods. The first set was 9-Trey Gangster and the second set was 1-8 Trey. O.G. Mack and O.G. Deadeye are considered the "Godfathers" or O.G. (Original Gangster) of the East Coast Bloods. The two recruited inmates to form the Bloods to fight off the Neta and Latin King gangs within the facilities. Membership:Bloods are predominately African American males. However, they will recruit any race of people who believe that they are oppressed such as Hispanic, White, Chinese, etc. The average age range is from 16 to 35 years old. Males and females are required to know blood history and codes before they are accepted into the gang. Some sets on Riker's require an individual to "put in work" or "eat food" (cut or slash someone) before they were considered blood. Members are known to place tattoos or three burn marks on their right upper biceps. A small percentage of females join the organization and are known as Bloodettes. Females usually perform sex acts on male bloods to join the organization. Philosophy:Bloods believe that in society and correctional institutions they will always fight oppression or what they believe to be oppression and retaliate against people who oppress. Being a member of the Bloods is a way of life and banging is a way of life. Identifiers: Colors worn: Green, Brown, Red or Red and Black Known to possess a red bandanna, which is worn around ones mouth covering the nose and the mouth tying in the back of the neck.Bandannas are also worn affixed on top of the head or hung out the rear right side of the member's pocket.Beads with the colors: Red, Black or Green are worn around the neck or around the right wrist or ankle. Professional sports apparel such as the Chicago Bulls jacket and cap are displayed to signify that you are a member of a particular set - a member of the U.B.N.Communication:Bloods are known to communicate by using hand signals, graffiti, or what is known as stacking. Bloods also speak in code type language and never pronounce the letter "C". Example: Cigarettes would be pronounced Wigarettes, etc. When writing or corresponding with family or other gang member individuals belonging to the Bloods will also cross out the letter "C" or replace the letter with the number 3 which represents the third letter in the alphabet when communicating in letters to disrespect the Crips. Example: 3rips - the three represents the C. East Coast Bloods have developed a complex system of codes that they transmit messages through written correspondence with other Gang members in other institutions or state correctional facilities or even the general public. Correspondence such as this is known as sending "KITES".Organizational Structure: As of mid 90's: Superior = 1012nd Superior = 102Minister of Defense = 103Advisor = 104Head of Security = 105Commanding Officer = 106Captains = 107Lieutenants = 108/109Soldiers = 110Currently on Riker's Island: (we have seen a restructuring of the organization)5 Star General4 Star General3 Star General2 Star General1 Star GeneralGang members incarcerated in facilities are now ruled by a committee of 5 or more members voting. Common Tattoos:Bloods are known to have tattoos of a Bulldog, M.O.B. (Member of Blood) or U.B.N. (United Blood Nation) they could have three Burn Marks on their right upper biceps, wrist or hands. Females are known to have three burns on their right ankles or below their waist. Three burns are intended to represent a Dog Paw and the positioning of the burns would indicate which set of the East Coast Bloods the individual shows allegiance.
President, Vice President, Recruiter, Secretary, Sergeant Oat Arms and Enforces
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Origin: East Coast Bloods were founded on Rikers Island in 1993 by Omar Porter (O.G. Mack) and Leonard McKenzie (O.G. Deadeye). The duo met on Riker's Island while they were both being detained in the George Motchen Detention Center also known as C-73. These two detainees formed the first two sets of what is now known as the East Coast Bloods. The first set was 9-Trey Gangster and the second set was 1-8 Trey. O.G. Mack and O.G. Deadeye are considered the "Godfathers" or O.G. (Original Gangster) of the East Coast Bloods. The two recruited inmates to form the Bloods to fight off the Neta and Latin King gangs within the facilities. Membership:Bloods are predominately African American males. However, they will recruit any race of people who believe that they are oppressed such as Hispanic, White, Chinese, etc. The average age range is from 16 to 35 years old. Males and females are required to know blood history and codes before they are accepted into the gang. Some sets on Riker's require an individual to "put in work" or "eat food" (cut or slash someone) before they were considered blood. Members are known to place tattoos or three burn marks on their right upper biceps. A small percentage of females join the organization and are known as Bloodettes. Females usually perform sex acts on male bloods to join the organization. Philosophy:Bloods believe that in society and correctional institutions they will always fight oppression or what they believe to be oppression and retaliate against people who oppress. Being a member of the Bloods is a way of life and banging is a way of life. Identifiers: Colors worn: Green, Brown, Red or Red and Black Known to possess a red bandanna, which is worn around ones mouth covering the nose and the mouth tying in the back of the neck.Bandannas are also worn affixed on top of the head or hung out the rear right side of the member's pocket.Beads with the colors: Red, Black or Green are worn around the neck or around the right wrist or ankle. Professional sports apparel such as the Chicago Bulls jacket and cap are displayed to signify that you are a member of a particular set - a member of the U.B.N.Communication:Bloods are known to communicate by using hand signals, graffiti, or what is known as stacking. Bloods also speak in code type language and never pronounce the letter "C". Example: Cigarettes would be pronounced Wigarettes, etc. When writing or corresponding with family or other gang member individuals belonging to the Bloods will also cross out the letter "C" or replace the letter with the number 3 which represents the third letter in the alphabet when communicating in letters to disrespect the Crips. Example: 3rips - the three represents the C. East Coast Bloods have developed a complex system of codes that they transmit messages through written correspondence with other Gang members in other institutions or state correctional facilities or even the general public. Correspondence such as this is known as sending "KITES".Organizational Structure: As of mid 90's: Superior = 1012nd Superior = 102Minister of Defense = 103Advisor = 104Head of Security = 105Commanding Officer = 106Captains = 107Lieutenants = 108/109Soldiers = 110Currently on Riker's Island: (we have seen a restructuring of the organization)5 Star General4 Star General3 Star General2 Star General1 Star GeneralGang members incarcerated in facilities are now ruled by a committee of 5 or more members voting. Common Tattoos:Bloods are known to have tattoos of a Bulldog, M.O.B. (Member of Blood) or U.B.N. (United Blood Nation) they could have three Burn Marks on their right upper biceps, wrist or hands. Females are known to have three burns on their right ankles or below their waist. Three burns are intended to represent a Dog Paw and the positioning of the burns would indicate which set of the East Coast Bloods the individual shows allegiance.
President, Vice President, Recruiter, Secretary, Sergeant Oat Arms and Enforces
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Sunday, July 27, 2008
NETA ASSOCIATION
NETA ASSOCIATION
Origin: In 1979, Carlos Torres Iriarte a.k.a. "Carlos La Sombra" (The Shadow), an inmate at La Princesa (The Princess) Correctional Facility on the Island of Puerto Rico, organized the inmates under the "Association Neta". He created this association in an attempt to create a power base to enact prisons rights and stop the abuses that the gangs known as 27 or Insectos were implementing. Carlos La Sombra died for his cause on a basketball court while being detained in a Puerto Rico Correctional facility. The Association Neta membership thrived and became the most feared prison gang on the Island of Puerto Rico, NYDC started to identify and track the Neta Association in the late 1980's on Rikers Island. Association became an extremely violent gang and was involved in multiple gang-related incidents. Membership:Majority Hispanic Males. Some Females do participate their age range from 14-50 years of age. This organization ultimately will accept any race or religion. They will even accept alternative life style and mental observation housed inmates within a correctional facility. Identifiers:Hand salute: Crossing two fingers Colors worn: Black, White and Red Tattoos: Using the word Neta or their hand saluteNeta Association follows a strict set of rules and regulations. There are 25 rules and regulations that are strictly enforced.These rules are known as "Norms".Neta members come together in observance of their fallen members on the 30th of each month.Organization: Established hierarchy including a President, Vice President, Recruiter, Secretary, Sergeant Oat Arms and Enforces.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Origin: In 1979, Carlos Torres Iriarte a.k.a. "Carlos La Sombra" (The Shadow), an inmate at La Princesa (The Princess) Correctional Facility on the Island of Puerto Rico, organized the inmates under the "Association Neta". He created this association in an attempt to create a power base to enact prisons rights and stop the abuses that the gangs known as 27 or Insectos were implementing. Carlos La Sombra died for his cause on a basketball court while being detained in a Puerto Rico Correctional facility. The Association Neta membership thrived and became the most feared prison gang on the Island of Puerto Rico, NYDC started to identify and track the Neta Association in the late 1980's on Rikers Island. Association became an extremely violent gang and was involved in multiple gang-related incidents. Membership:Majority Hispanic Males. Some Females do participate their age range from 14-50 years of age. This organization ultimately will accept any race or religion. They will even accept alternative life style and mental observation housed inmates within a correctional facility. Identifiers:Hand salute: Crossing two fingers Colors worn: Black, White and Red Tattoos: Using the word Neta or their hand saluteNeta Association follows a strict set of rules and regulations. There are 25 rules and regulations that are strictly enforced.These rules are known as "Norms".Neta members come together in observance of their fallen members on the 30th of each month.Organization: Established hierarchy including a President, Vice President, Recruiter, Secretary, Sergeant Oat Arms and Enforces.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Saturday, July 26, 2008
LATIN KINGS GANG
LATIN KINGS GANG
Latin Kings are the oldest, largest and most organized Hispanic Street Gang, which has its roots dating back to the 1940's in Chicago, Illinois. Latin King Documents reveal a man by the name "Gino Gustavo Colon" (a.k.a. Lord Gino) is considered the "SUN" of the Almighty Latin King Nation in Chicago and has been for a long time. Latin King Headquarters is located on Beach and Spaulding in Northwest Chicago.
Louis Felipe and his family were Cuban immigrants who moved to a Chicago suburb when he was seven years old. By the time he reached his fourteenth birthday he was recruited and joined a local street gang called the pee wee kings. In 1985, Louis Felipe moved to the Bronx, New York and was detained and later convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to ten years in state penitentiary.
On January 20, 1986 in the confines of Collins Correctional Facility in New York a new era was born when Louis Felipe emerged as "King Blood", the Latin Kings master scriber, penning a 42 page manifesto setting forth the history, rules, regulations and goals of the Latin King Nation. This manifesto described in detail how Kings were to act and how to become knowledgeable about Latin King Culture. Example Latin King Documents are always written on yellow paper and signed in Black ink. If a member of the Latin Kings uses white paper and blue ink, the person writing the letter will always start the letter with this phrase on top of the letter. "EXCUSE THE WHITE PAPER AND BLUE INK" and will always sign the document with his Latin King name and A.K.A.
Antonio Fernandez, better know as "King Tone" was the leader or Inca of the Almighty Latin King Queen Nation. He claims to have transformed a deadly prison gang into a Community-based organization. He has enemies - the Cops, the Feds, the turncoats among his own Kings and the Bloods who seem to be slashing everyone in sight. Currently serving a 12-year federal prison sentence.
Meaning of the Five Points: RESPECT HONESTY UNITY KNOWLEDGE LOVE Rank Structure Crown Position:1st Crown President - Black Onyx2nd Crown Vice President - White Pearl3rd Crown Warlord - Emerald4th Crown Treasurer - Red Ruby5th Crown Advisor - Gold/AmberLatin King Characteristics: Consider themselves to be a community-based organization Preach Hispanic pride/heritage Their religion is called Kingdism (meetings are often conducted during these gatherings) Strictly enforced constitution or manifesto (Rules/Regulations) Motto: Cowards die many times before their death. Latin Kings never taste death…..But once" (Amor Del Rey) Main focus is to control drug trafficking and internal gang discipline both within prison and outside of prison in the local community. Membership:Primarily Hispanic. Male and Females (commonly referred to as Kings and Queens). Who are required to recite the Latin King pledge, prayer, and must be prepared to rise to the occasion for this or her King. Identifiers - People Nation Symbols:Hand salute or shake when greeting another member. Three-point crown or five-point crown or people nation Tattoos. Black/Gold Beads or clothing. Graffiti such as 360 strong / ALKN/ALKQN/three point crown or five point crown/A.D.R. Common Terminology/Communication:Latin Kings while incarcerated in NYDC custody have been found to be in possession of many different types and use a coded systems example.REY - Male KingREYS - Female KingA.D.R. - Love for the KingA.L.K.Q.N. - Almighty Latin King Queen NationLions Jungle - Latin King Codes - Nine page documented7000 - Kings Word5000 - I love you, King LoveB.O.S. - Beat on SightT.O.S. - Terminate on SightLatin Kings are considered extremely dangerous and organized within the confines of the prison population and within the community in general. Their criminal activity has been known to but not limited to extortion, murder and drug trafficking. Louis Felipe a.k.a. "King Blood" was the founder and considered the Godfather/Inca of the New York division. He was convicted in federal court of ordering numerous murders while he was incarcerated in a New York State penitentiary. Currently, he is serving a life + sentence in a Federal penitentiary. Currently, the Department of Correction has approximately 310 active Latin Kings assessed in the Super Base System.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Latin Kings are the oldest, largest and most organized Hispanic Street Gang, which has its roots dating back to the 1940's in Chicago, Illinois. Latin King Documents reveal a man by the name "Gino Gustavo Colon" (a.k.a. Lord Gino) is considered the "SUN" of the Almighty Latin King Nation in Chicago and has been for a long time. Latin King Headquarters is located on Beach and Spaulding in Northwest Chicago.
Louis Felipe and his family were Cuban immigrants who moved to a Chicago suburb when he was seven years old. By the time he reached his fourteenth birthday he was recruited and joined a local street gang called the pee wee kings. In 1985, Louis Felipe moved to the Bronx, New York and was detained and later convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to ten years in state penitentiary.
On January 20, 1986 in the confines of Collins Correctional Facility in New York a new era was born when Louis Felipe emerged as "King Blood", the Latin Kings master scriber, penning a 42 page manifesto setting forth the history, rules, regulations and goals of the Latin King Nation. This manifesto described in detail how Kings were to act and how to become knowledgeable about Latin King Culture. Example Latin King Documents are always written on yellow paper and signed in Black ink. If a member of the Latin Kings uses white paper and blue ink, the person writing the letter will always start the letter with this phrase on top of the letter. "EXCUSE THE WHITE PAPER AND BLUE INK" and will always sign the document with his Latin King name and A.K.A.
Antonio Fernandez, better know as "King Tone" was the leader or Inca of the Almighty Latin King Queen Nation. He claims to have transformed a deadly prison gang into a Community-based organization. He has enemies - the Cops, the Feds, the turncoats among his own Kings and the Bloods who seem to be slashing everyone in sight. Currently serving a 12-year federal prison sentence.
Meaning of the Five Points: RESPECT HONESTY UNITY KNOWLEDGE LOVE Rank Structure Crown Position:1st Crown President - Black Onyx2nd Crown Vice President - White Pearl3rd Crown Warlord - Emerald4th Crown Treasurer - Red Ruby5th Crown Advisor - Gold/AmberLatin King Characteristics: Consider themselves to be a community-based organization Preach Hispanic pride/heritage Their religion is called Kingdism (meetings are often conducted during these gatherings) Strictly enforced constitution or manifesto (Rules/Regulations) Motto: Cowards die many times before their death. Latin Kings never taste death…..But once" (Amor Del Rey) Main focus is to control drug trafficking and internal gang discipline both within prison and outside of prison in the local community. Membership:Primarily Hispanic. Male and Females (commonly referred to as Kings and Queens). Who are required to recite the Latin King pledge, prayer, and must be prepared to rise to the occasion for this or her King. Identifiers - People Nation Symbols:Hand salute or shake when greeting another member. Three-point crown or five-point crown or people nation Tattoos. Black/Gold Beads or clothing. Graffiti such as 360 strong / ALKN/ALKQN/three point crown or five point crown/A.D.R. Common Terminology/Communication:Latin Kings while incarcerated in NYDC custody have been found to be in possession of many different types and use a coded systems example.REY - Male KingREYS - Female KingA.D.R. - Love for the KingA.L.K.Q.N. - Almighty Latin King Queen NationLions Jungle - Latin King Codes - Nine page documented7000 - Kings Word5000 - I love you, King LoveB.O.S. - Beat on SightT.O.S. - Terminate on SightLatin Kings are considered extremely dangerous and organized within the confines of the prison population and within the community in general. Their criminal activity has been known to but not limited to extortion, murder and drug trafficking. Louis Felipe a.k.a. "King Blood" was the founder and considered the Godfather/Inca of the New York division. He was convicted in federal court of ordering numerous murders while he was incarcerated in a New York State penitentiary. Currently, he is serving a life + sentence in a Federal penitentiary. Currently, the Department of Correction has approximately 310 active Latin Kings assessed in the Super Base System.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Friday, July 25, 2008
Analytical Models
Analytical Models
Two analytical models—a problem-solving model and a gang-problem triangle model—are suggested throughout this monograph to help communities understand and develop effective solutions to local gang problems. The two models are briefly discussed here to familiarize the reader with them.
The problem-solving model that is applied to gang problems in this monograph is often referred to as SARA, an acronym for the four steps involved in the process—scanning, analysis, response, and assessment. Communities first initiate the problem-solving process by searching for and identifying gang problems—scanning. This involves narrowing the community’s view of a general gang problem to a more specific problem, such as gang graffiti, drug sales, or drive by shootings. Each problem necessitates a different response.
The second stage of the problem-solving process—analysis—involves investigating the specific gang problem in greater detail. The gang-problem triangle model, described in the next section of this chapter, is useful for analysis. This gang-problem triangle model can help break gang problems into parts to be analyzed more easily. In general, analysis helps a community understand the nature of its gang problem—what form it takes, which is harmed and how and when the problems occur. Even a common gang problem such as graffiti can be analyzed: When do the graffiti incidents occur?
Where do they usually happen? What type of tool is used to apply the graffiti? Only when a community can answer basic questions about the who, how, when, and where of a gang problem is it time to develop a response to the problem.
Having identified their gang problems and thoroughly analyzed them, communities can develop specific responses directed to these harms. Typically, community groups hear about an innovative program for addressing gang-related problems and try to implement that program without regard to the unique characteristics of their local gang. This is a natural response although usually not effective. Implementing afterschool activities for 7th through 10th graders, for example, is likely to have little impact on a gang problem in which 12th graders are causing the harm. Communities following the SARA model, however, can conceptually link specific problems with specific local responses.
The final stage of the problem-solving process assesses the effectiveness of the response. Assessment can determine whether the problem was eliminated or reduced. Assessment also can be used to change the response, improve the analysis, or even redefine the problem. Assessment means more than deciding that the gang went away. A well-planned assessment may indicate that neighbors are less fearful, the incidence of graffiti is reduced, or drive by shootings has diminished. These reductions of harm are important outcomes that should be thoroughly documented.
As referred to previously, the gang-problem triangle model is a method of analyzing or developing a deeper understanding of local gang problems and pointing to fruitful avenues of response. This analytical model stems from the concept of a fire. Three elements are needed for a fire: Fuel (something that will burn), heat (to set the fuel on fire), and oxygen (without which the fuel will not burn). If one of these three elements is missing, the fire will never start. If one element is removed, a burning fire will go out. Part of a firefighter’s job is to determine which of the three elements will be easiest to remove. If one thinks about each element as representing a side of a triangle, one can easily visualize that removing a side of the triangle will cause it to collapse.
Similarly, three elements must be present before gang-related harm can occur: An offender, a victim, and a place. An offender is someone who is motivated to commit an offense, such as painting graffiti or committing a robbery. A victim is a desirable and vulnerable target who must be present for the harm to occur. And, of course, there must be a physical place in which the victim and the offender converge, usually at the same time.
If these three elements show up over and over again, removing one of the three elements can break the pattern of offending and prevent future harm.
By identifying the elements that are easiest to remove and working to remove them, communities can significantly reduce their gang problems.
An important part of the gang-problem triangle is recognition that there are third parties with responsibilities for each side of the triangle. Controllers are people who try to prevent potential offenders from committing crimes. Guardians are people who try to prevent harm from coming to potential victims. Managers are people who oversee places where harm occurs. Thus, in an incidence of gang graffiti, one could consider parents or teachers as controllers, police as guardians of the victims in areas where graffiti occurs, and building owners as managers of the places where graffiti occurs. Identifying the people responsible for victims, offenders, and places where crime occurs and involving them in the development of crime prevention programs is necessary if communities are to reduce or prevent future gang problems.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Two analytical models—a problem-solving model and a gang-problem triangle model—are suggested throughout this monograph to help communities understand and develop effective solutions to local gang problems. The two models are briefly discussed here to familiarize the reader with them.
The problem-solving model that is applied to gang problems in this monograph is often referred to as SARA, an acronym for the four steps involved in the process—scanning, analysis, response, and assessment. Communities first initiate the problem-solving process by searching for and identifying gang problems—scanning. This involves narrowing the community’s view of a general gang problem to a more specific problem, such as gang graffiti, drug sales, or drive by shootings. Each problem necessitates a different response.
The second stage of the problem-solving process—analysis—involves investigating the specific gang problem in greater detail. The gang-problem triangle model, described in the next section of this chapter, is useful for analysis. This gang-problem triangle model can help break gang problems into parts to be analyzed more easily. In general, analysis helps a community understand the nature of its gang problem—what form it takes, which is harmed and how and when the problems occur. Even a common gang problem such as graffiti can be analyzed: When do the graffiti incidents occur?
Where do they usually happen? What type of tool is used to apply the graffiti? Only when a community can answer basic questions about the who, how, when, and where of a gang problem is it time to develop a response to the problem.
Having identified their gang problems and thoroughly analyzed them, communities can develop specific responses directed to these harms. Typically, community groups hear about an innovative program for addressing gang-related problems and try to implement that program without regard to the unique characteristics of their local gang. This is a natural response although usually not effective. Implementing afterschool activities for 7th through 10th graders, for example, is likely to have little impact on a gang problem in which 12th graders are causing the harm. Communities following the SARA model, however, can conceptually link specific problems with specific local responses.
The final stage of the problem-solving process assesses the effectiveness of the response. Assessment can determine whether the problem was eliminated or reduced. Assessment also can be used to change the response, improve the analysis, or even redefine the problem. Assessment means more than deciding that the gang went away. A well-planned assessment may indicate that neighbors are less fearful, the incidence of graffiti is reduced, or drive by shootings has diminished. These reductions of harm are important outcomes that should be thoroughly documented.
As referred to previously, the gang-problem triangle model is a method of analyzing or developing a deeper understanding of local gang problems and pointing to fruitful avenues of response. This analytical model stems from the concept of a fire. Three elements are needed for a fire: Fuel (something that will burn), heat (to set the fuel on fire), and oxygen (without which the fuel will not burn). If one of these three elements is missing, the fire will never start. If one element is removed, a burning fire will go out. Part of a firefighter’s job is to determine which of the three elements will be easiest to remove. If one thinks about each element as representing a side of a triangle, one can easily visualize that removing a side of the triangle will cause it to collapse.
Similarly, three elements must be present before gang-related harm can occur: An offender, a victim, and a place. An offender is someone who is motivated to commit an offense, such as painting graffiti or committing a robbery. A victim is a desirable and vulnerable target who must be present for the harm to occur. And, of course, there must be a physical place in which the victim and the offender converge, usually at the same time.
If these three elements show up over and over again, removing one of the three elements can break the pattern of offending and prevent future harm.
By identifying the elements that are easiest to remove and working to remove them, communities can significantly reduce their gang problems.
An important part of the gang-problem triangle is recognition that there are third parties with responsibilities for each side of the triangle. Controllers are people who try to prevent potential offenders from committing crimes. Guardians are people who try to prevent harm from coming to potential victims. Managers are people who oversee places where harm occurs. Thus, in an incidence of gang graffiti, one could consider parents or teachers as controllers, police as guardians of the victims in areas where graffiti occurs, and building owners as managers of the places where graffiti occurs. Identifying the people responsible for victims, offenders, and places where crime occurs and involving them in the development of crime prevention programs is necessary if communities are to reduce or prevent future gang problems.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Understanding Gangs and Gang problems
Understanding Gangs and Gang problems
Contemporary gangs—variously known as youth, delinquent, street, or criminal gangs—have become a widespread threat to communities throughout the Nation. Once considered largely an urban phenomenon, gangs have increasingly emerged in smaller communities, presenting a challenge that severely strains local resources.
There is a growing wealth of academic literature about the nature of gangs; the scope and type of their activities, their organizational structure, and their leadership (see bibliography in Appendix A). These books and articles provide a valuable starting point for those interested in expanding their understanding of contemporary gangs. A close reading of the literature points to the inevitable conclusion that all gang problems are local in nature.
Whether rooted in neighborhoods, representing a rite of passage, providing surrogate families, or providing access to economic opportunity, most gangs are inherently local. Even large-scale gangs with reputed nationwide networks attract local youths and take advantage of local opportunities to carry out gang activities.
Local problems require local solutions. That is the focus of this monograph.
To address the growing concern about gangs, the Police Executive Research
Forum (PERF) has developed this monograph, Addressing Community
Gang Problems: A Practical Guide. It is a useful tool providing guidance for agencies in developing individualized responses to local gang problems.
This monograph evolved from a PERF project funded by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) in 1994 involving communities in four cities. Although serious concerns about gang problems permeated each community, PERF found a dearth of programmatic materials designed to offer meaningful guidance to community groups, which often included residents, business owners, municipal government employees, schools, criminal justice personnel, and others. As part of its work with BJA, PERF developed a manual that offers a process to solve gang problems. That manual, entitled Addressing Community Gang Problems:
A Model for Problem Solving, a companion to this monograph, has been published by BJA.
Community-based organizations, however, often need more in-depth guidance on specific issues related to gangs. This monograph provides the reader with a practical foundation for understanding the diverse nature of gangs, the problems they pose and the harms they cause, and the two analytical models for addressing gang-related problems.
This monograph includes a brief theoretical overview of key gang issues relevant to community groups and discusses some specific approaches to analyzing and responding to gang problems. It by no means sets forth all the possible responses to gang problems, but it does provide practical guidance—including worksheets and planning documents—to assist community groups. Each chapter can be used separately to address specific community needs.
This monograph and the manual, Addressing Community Gang Problems: A
Model for Problem Solving, complement a companion document published by BJA entitled Urban Street Gang Enforcement. The Urban Street Gang Enforcement monograph focuses exclusively on enforcement and prosecution strategies to protect against urban street gangs and presents strategies to enhance the prosecution of gang-related crimes.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
Contemporary gangs—variously known as youth, delinquent, street, or criminal gangs—have become a widespread threat to communities throughout the Nation. Once considered largely an urban phenomenon, gangs have increasingly emerged in smaller communities, presenting a challenge that severely strains local resources.
There is a growing wealth of academic literature about the nature of gangs; the scope and type of their activities, their organizational structure, and their leadership (see bibliography in Appendix A). These books and articles provide a valuable starting point for those interested in expanding their understanding of contemporary gangs. A close reading of the literature points to the inevitable conclusion that all gang problems are local in nature.
Whether rooted in neighborhoods, representing a rite of passage, providing surrogate families, or providing access to economic opportunity, most gangs are inherently local. Even large-scale gangs with reputed nationwide networks attract local youths and take advantage of local opportunities to carry out gang activities.
Local problems require local solutions. That is the focus of this monograph.
To address the growing concern about gangs, the Police Executive Research
Forum (PERF) has developed this monograph, Addressing Community
Gang Problems: A Practical Guide. It is a useful tool providing guidance for agencies in developing individualized responses to local gang problems.
This monograph evolved from a PERF project funded by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) in 1994 involving communities in four cities. Although serious concerns about gang problems permeated each community, PERF found a dearth of programmatic materials designed to offer meaningful guidance to community groups, which often included residents, business owners, municipal government employees, schools, criminal justice personnel, and others. As part of its work with BJA, PERF developed a manual that offers a process to solve gang problems. That manual, entitled Addressing Community Gang Problems:
A Model for Problem Solving, a companion to this monograph, has been published by BJA.
Community-based organizations, however, often need more in-depth guidance on specific issues related to gangs. This monograph provides the reader with a practical foundation for understanding the diverse nature of gangs, the problems they pose and the harms they cause, and the two analytical models for addressing gang-related problems.
This monograph includes a brief theoretical overview of key gang issues relevant to community groups and discusses some specific approaches to analyzing and responding to gang problems. It by no means sets forth all the possible responses to gang problems, but it does provide practical guidance—including worksheets and planning documents—to assist community groups. Each chapter can be used separately to address specific community needs.
This monograph and the manual, Addressing Community Gang Problems: A
Model for Problem Solving, complement a companion document published by BJA entitled Urban Street Gang Enforcement. The Urban Street Gang Enforcement monograph focuses exclusively on enforcement and prosecution strategies to protect against urban street gangs and presents strategies to enhance the prosecution of gang-related crimes.
http://www.allaboutlongisland.com
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