Hybrid Gangs and Their Hidden Threat to Law Enforcement
Abstract
This paper examines the unrecognized threats to law enforcement presented by hybrid gangs and their members. Information contained in this paper was obtained via literary and historical research and review, personal contact as well as the author’s previous experience in gang and covert investigations. In 2001, the United States Department of Justice identified the increasing development of hybrid gangs and their threat potential. Since that time, hybrid gangs have flourished and have continued to grow and evolve. Unfortunately, there has been a lack of updated training for law enforcement concerning the evolution and development of these gangs. The lack of training, combined with personal apathy and complacency displayed by some in law enforcement enhances the threat these entities pose for law enforcement personnel.
Introduction
Gang members and violence have long been considered synonymous in the law enforcement community. As crime and violence in communities has increased; society has experienced a proliferation of criminal gangs of various forms