Study Notes on Organized Crime and Gang Structures

Organized Crime and Gang Structures

Introduction to Decentralized Structures

  • Definition of Decentralization: A system where each member has equal power and voice, contrasting with hierarchical systems.

  • Mention of Northern California Frisbee Games: A comparison of decentralized power structures to hierarchical military ranks (generals, colonels, majors, etc.).

The Mexican Mafia (La Eme)

  • Operating Principles:

    • Members expected to pay one-third of illegal proceeds back to the organization.

    • Mandatory compliance with directives; non-compliance leads to severe consequences (beatings, stabbings).

  • Role of Shot Callers:

    • Definition: Individuals in charge of specific gangs or groups, particularly in prison settings.

    • Example: Someone designated as the shot caller at Santa Barbara County Jail, responsible for controlling operations.

  • Geographical Influence: Mexican Mafia has distinct areas of influence across counties (e.g., Santa Barbara, San Luis, Ventura), with each member controlling their specific region.

  • Example of a Previous Influence: Mikey Boo (Mike Vasilis), identified as influential in the area before the speaker's last encounter.

The Aryan Brotherhood (AB)

  • Establishment and Characteristics:

    • Founded in 1967 at San Quentin, becoming one of the most violent groups within the prison system.

    • Has a reputation for extreme violence and ruthlessness.

    • Known for tattoos such as: shamrocks, AB, 666, and a preference for the color green.

  • Behavioral Traits:

    • Comparison with Mexican Mafia: AB tends to attract attention and is less concerned with maintaining a low profile.

    • Relationships with other gangs: More likely to cooperate with the Mexican Mafia.

  • Symbolism and Gang Life:

    • Discussion of tattoo meanings and gang identity.

    • Prospects are often involved in violent acts to prove loyalty and earn their full patch within AB.

Types of Sentencing and Gang Behavior in Prison

  • Types of Prison Sentences

    • Indeterminate: Potential for early release based on good behavior and participation in rehabilitation programs.

    • Determinate (Flat Time): Fixed sentences with no possibility for early release based on behavior.

  • Gang Activity in Prison:

    • Various gangs, including Bloods and Hispanics, engage in extortion and drug-related activities.

    • The dynamics among gangs create a volatile environment where strength in numbers can dominate.

  • Power Dynamics:

    • Assertion of gang control over prison life, with the insinuation that inmates often exert authority over corrections officers.

Special Features of Prison Gangs

  • Hierarchy and Control:

    • Descriptions of how gangs maintain power within the prison system (e.g., through fear and intimidation).

    • Explanation of predatory behavior among inmates regarding enhancement of influence and authority.

  • Bulldog Example: William Sams, a member of the Aryan Brotherhood, discussed his aggressive values and actions within the gang, including violence against rival groups and aspirations for power.

Nuestra Familia (NF)

  • Formation and Mission:

    • Established in the mid-1960s to protect members from the Mexican Mafia, showing an evolution of gang structure over time.

    • Noted for hierarchical organization similar to the military.

  • Influence of Ex-prison Gang Members:

    • Members undertake educated roles like money laundering to help the gang expand its operations and influence.

Black Guerrilla Family (BGF)

  • Political Motivations:

    • Tied to the Black Panther Party, promoting ideals of eradicating racism while engaging in criminal behavior to oppose authority.

Nazi Low Riders (NLR)

  • Background and Behavior:

    • Emerged from California Youth Authority, aligned with Aryan Brotherhood, and known for extreme violence.

    • Description of organizational behavior and ambitions to expand influence following their incorporation into the larger Aryan Brotherhood.

Communication Methods Among Gangs

  • Innovative Communication:

    • Use of coded messages, kites (micro writings), and the involvement of outside accomplices like crooked lawyers and family members.

    • Introduction of illegal cell phone usage among inmates to maintain contact and coordinate gang activities.

Organized Motorcycle Gangs (OMGs)

  • Overview:

    • Common terms and groups: Hells Angels, Mongols, etc., recognized as organized crime entities.

    • Involved in theft, drug trafficking, and aggressive group behavior.

  • Culture and Identity:

    • The symbolic three-piece patch representing club affiliation.

Transnational Organized Crime

  • Current Trends:

    • Analysis of Mexican drug cartels, focusing on drug trafficking, extortion, and sex trafficking.

    • Use of violence primarily for intimidation, sending messages of power to rivals and civilians.

  • Impact on Communities:

    • Discussion on how familial ties to those in Mexico are impacted by cartel activities, highlighting fear and influence over loved ones.

  • Recent Developments:

    • Fentanyl trafficking as a growing concern; examination of cartels' humanitarian impact and methods of distribution in the U.S.

    • Notorious figures within cartels (e.g., sons of El Chapo) and their expanding operations.

Conclusion

  • Current Landscape of Crime:

    • Constant evolution of organized crime structures, gang influence policies, and law enforcement challenges.

  • Emerging Technologies: Utilize of databases, wiretaps, and financial tracking to combat organized crime effectively.