These criminal organizations engage in high-stakes narcotics and weapons trafficking, gambling, robbery and other equally serious crimes. Never before have gangs been so mobile and so dangerous, and the problem is spreading. Violent street gangs are active in 94 percent of all medium and large sized cities in America. There is no easy answer to solve the problem of gang violence. Only through the combined efforts of parents, schools, churches, community leaders and law enforcement will gang violence begin to subside.
Most gang members are proud of their gang and freely admit their membership.
Many dress in a particular style or color identifying their particular gang. Their personal belongings are frequently covered with graffiti and bear the gang symbols or logos and member's street name. Don't ignore these warning signs Changes in clothing patterns with a preference towards a particular color, sports or team logos. Use of hand signs and signals - usually as an alternate form of communication. Tattoos or branding of the body with distinctive designs, logos or names.