The gang problem today is much more pervasive and menacing than at any time in history. Over the past 20 years, gang membership has crossed all socioeconomic, ethnic, and racial boundaries and now permeates American society.
Gangs affect society in terms of heightened fear, crime, and economic costs.
Most gangs have members who are involved in drug trafficking to some extent, ranging from street-level sales to wholesale distribution. However, the level of drug trafficking by gang members varies regionally. Numerous law enforcement agencies report that some gangs involved in wholesale drug distribution have connections to major international drug trafficking organizations. While the overall violent crime rate has dropped nationwide, many smaller communities have experienced increases, sometimes double-digit increases, due to gang violence. Witness intimidation is dramatically affecting the prosecution of violent gang offenders.