With over 157,000 gang members in Los Angeles, established gang members were sent to less gang saturated communities to create new opportunities for drug trafficking. However, in St. Louis City, the majority of gangs are not involved in interstate drug trafficking, although many do sell drugs. Leadership roles in street gangs are usually not formally recognized positions. They are assumed by a member who demonstrates dominant control at a given time. Gangs are usually comprised of males ranging from 11 to 28 years of age.
Members represent all racial and ethnic groups and are predominantly from the lowest income levels.
However, we're beginning to see gangs moving into middle class neighborhoods, and in some cases, form integrated gangs. There are a variety of reasons, including the excitement of gang activity, peer pressure, attention, media interest, financial benefit and lack of realization of the hazards involved. In many cases, young people are not actively discouraged from gang involvement by their parents. Often, parents do not realize that their children are engaged in gang activity. A small number of parents knowingly support and encourage gang activity to help provide for the family.