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Criminal Gangs in TEOTWAWKI -- Understanding a Potential Threat, by Ryan S.
This is a brief introduction to criminal gangs and gang culture. It is important
to understand gangs as a potential threat that your retreat group could face.
I have not intended this to be comprehensive. It would be a very daunting task
to list and detail every gang or disruptive group occurring in the U.S. What
I intending to do is make you aware of something you may have overlooked.
I would like to enlighten the blog readers about another aspect of their situational
awareness, namely gang recognition. This could be very important information
for many people not just in a WTSHTF situation, but in everyday life in normal
times. Many people do not live at their retreat, but may live or perhaps work
in a gangland area.
I have worked in law enforcement for a state agency for nearly a decade. I
have a lot of experience working around gangs and the gang culture.
The first thing we must understand is that there are dangerous and violent
gangs in every state in the US. We are fortunate that most
gangs are centered around urban areas and usually expend their violence on
the members of other gangs
Ii is my belief that in the opening stages of a societal collapse many gang
members as well as many erstwhile law-abiding residents of cities will begin
with rampant looting. Then, when they have figured out the police are not responding
[because of the massive scale of the looting], they will set about settling
old scores. Once they've figured out that the supermarkets don't have any more
food coming the more coherent members will move on to taking what they want
from the shivering masses. And then, when the people leave their broken cities,
the predators will follow their prey. You would then have hordes of starving
and desperate people migrating from the urban centers. On the fringes will
the organized and ad-hoc gangs--preying on whatever happens to cross their
path. These gangs would have experience brought from their street wars and
honed to a razor edge by robbing the masses of Joe Six Packs. The prospect
of a “Golden
Horde” [with gangs traveling in their wake] is not
a pleasant thought.
Growth Trends
There are some disturbing trends in the currently rapid growth of criminal gangs. Traditionally
gangs were a result of conditions encountered by youths within large urban
inner cities or of established prison gangs gaining influence on the outside.
We cannot discount the proliferation of low-income, fatherless, single parent
families as a result of amoral behavior. Some people may take offense to this
but it is statistically proven. [JWR Adds: Lest the author
be accused of being racist (he is not), readers should recognize that single
parent families of all races share many of the same problems,
including dependence of welfare, chronic truancy, low graduation rates, teenage
pregnancy, drug abuse, alcoholism, criminal behavior, gang affiliation, and
so forth.]
These influencing factors are all still current, but not exclusive. The current
national situation is worse and poised to get even worse. There are a myriad
of causes and I will touch on a few that will affect people more acutely, who
are located in the western U.S. There are many unique factors associated with
the eastern U.S. but my experience is with the west.
Perhaps the worst effect on increasing gang activity throughout the western
US is a lack of effective border controls. American's apathy to secure our
southern border is allowing Mexican drug cartels free reign to move illicit
drugs into the U.S. These guys are bad news! The Mexican government is rife
with corruption funded by the cartels. The few officials who dare to make a
stand against the cartels either live in constant fear or are gunned down.
There have been a number of gruesome assassinations of Mexican government officials,
some in broad daylight. We must keep in mind that many US-based gangs have
close ties to Mexican cartels, either being supplied by or run behind the scenes
by them. This is evidenced by criminal activities related to Mexican cartels
across many southern tier states.
We must also examine the effects of popular or “pop” culture. Popular
media has turned millions of suburban teenagers [of all races and from middle
class backgrounds] into wannabe bang bangers. Popular music, movies and television
often portray gang association in positive manner. Another factor to consider
is relocation. Often in an effort to remove their children from the influence
of gangs, parents of teenage gang members move their families out of cities
and into suburbia. There, instead of removing their children from influence,
their children find a receptive audience for recruiting new members. Those
children will then become a new branch of the same gang or create a new gang.
Structure and Planning
Gang structure is usually well-organized and hierarchical. Many gangs use a
rank system similar to the military. The guy at the bottom takes orders from
the guy above him
and so on. Additionally lower ranks are prohibited from acting without specific
orders. Many gangs use a constitution or a set of by-laws, kind of a gang
banger S.O.P.
Do not be lulled into thinking that members of gangs are not
intelligent. This is simply not the case. It may be true on an individual
level but on an organizational level of thinking, that mindset is dangerous.
Don't be close minded. A lot of these people are what might be considered “evil
geniuses.” Many gangs have required reading for new initiates. Be advised:
They read a lot of the same stuff we do. They read “The Art of War,” “The
Book of the Five Rings,” and “The Prince.” They study small
unit tactics, military field manuals, guerrilla warfare and many other topics
that would surprise you. Gangs are not just a bunch of guys sitting around watching the movie “Scarface” over
and over again. There are instances of gangs funding the college education of especially
bright members. A local law enforcement agency recently discovered a detailed
five year plan, similar to a corporate plan, showing the planned expansion
of the gang and the very hostile takeover of a rival gang's territory. These were obviously very
motivated people and the plan was indicative of an educated leadership.
Most gangs are usually ethnic or racially based. There are exceptions to this
but it is usually true. Many gangs will make exceptions. They are completely
aware of stereotyping and may accept a member of another ethnicity or race
to appear less conspicuous. A notable exception for southern tier states would
be a prison gang called “Texas Syndicate.” This gang is comprised
mostly of Hispanic members but has a fair number of white members. On occasion
gangs will attempt to recruit members from different ethnic backgrounds in
order to avoid detection from rival gangs and law enforcement. Keep this in
mind.
Another disturbing aspect of gang structure is the inclusion of women and children.
many gangs will incorporate a branch of their gang with children. These are
usually the children or close relation of current members. Women are usually
the companions of members but may incorporate their own structure.
Gangs Common to the Western U.S.
My experience is with gangs common to the western U.S. so that is what I will
describe. Perhaps there is a blog reader in the eastern U.S. who
can address that region.
Generally most of the gangs common to the west began in California. Either
originating in Los Angeles or in the California prison system. They have spread
rapidly in the past 15 years. I will give an overview of the more common ones:
White Supremacist Gangs
There are white supremacist gangs throughout the U.S. You could encounter everything
from Neo-Nazis to white outlaw bikers. You will need to do some research to
see what's going on in your area. Check the Internet to see what's out there.
Be warned a lot of what you find in your research will be incredibly ignorant
and highly offensive. IMHO, these could be the most commonly encountered gangs
in the event of a total collapse. You should also be aware of all the kooks
out there that the media loves to glamorize as so called “survivalists” any
white supremacist gang has the potential to be extremely violent and unpredictable.
You do not want to be around any of these groups when things
go sideways. Keep that in mind while making your preparations.
Identifiers-
Swastika's (tattoos, flags, pictures, etc.)
Vikings (Pictures, Tattoos)
AB – Aryan Brotherhood (Tattoos, Pictures)
Refer to each other as “comrade”
666- (tattoos, pictures)
1488 – stands for “14 words” associated with white supremacist
gangs and “Heil Hitler” (“H” is the 8th letter in the
alphabet.) World War II German military SS badge (tattoos, Pictures, Posters)
Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs
Most outlaw motorcycle gangs began in the late 1940s after WWII and consisted
of returning G.I.s. Outlaw gangs are predominantly white. Many outlaw
motorcycle gangs have ties to other street or prison
gangs,
or will
follow racial lines. The Mongols motorcycle club has ties to the Mexican Mafia
and the Hells Angels has ties to white supremacist groups and does not allow
membership of african-americans or hispanics. Outlaw motorcycle gangs rule
the distribution
of meth. Its big business, the FBI estimates around $2 billion USD a year.
Outlaw motorcycle gangs are generally well organized, very well armed [with
an emphasis on semi-auto and unregistered full auto carbines], and have a strong
command structure.
Identifier-
motorcycles - usually Harley-Davidsons.
“Club colors” usually a jacket or vest with club patch on the back. (This usually consists of a large patch in the center with banners on the top and bottom called “Rockers”)
“Club House”- motorcycle clubs will buy or rent a house or building
to use as meeting place. If you have one near your home, then move.
Tattoos- not universal but a good indication. Usually motorcycle topics.
[JWR Adds: I consider white outlaw motorcycle gangs the single greatest threat to rural retreats. Plan accordingly. Not only do motorcycle gangs have great mobility (at 45+ miles per gallon!), but in some circumstances they will also be able to "blend in" with a rural populace better than gangs that are predominantly composed of racial minorities.]
Surenos
Surenos translated from Spanish is “Southerners.” Generally comprised
of Hispanic members. This gang is a conglomeration of Los Angeles street gangs
and the California prison gang “Eme” (Spanish for the Letter “M”)
or Mexican Mafia became organized in California prisons in the 1960s. Surenos
are closely involved with Mexican drug cartels. This is a very motivated, well
organized gang. It is expanding rapidly and can be encountered throughout the
west as well as nationally. Also has a notable presence within the Federal
Prison System.
Identifiers -
Word “Sureno (S)”
Abbreviation “SUR”
Number “13” (M is the 13th letter in the alphabet)
Word “Eme”
Blue colored clothing or bandannas
Nortenos
Nortenos translated from Spanish is “Northerners.” Generally comprised
of Hispanic members. Nortenos are traditionally enemies of Sureno's this gang
is also a conglomeration of many different gangs. member are usually from areas
north of Fresno, California. This gang also became organized within the California
prison system. The Nortenos became organized as a result subjugation of rural
Hispanics within the prison system by the Mexican Mafia. Generally very well
organized,
usually encountered within west coast states, but is expanding.
Identifiers -
Word “Norteno(s)
Number “14” ( N is the 14th letter in the alphabet)
Word “Ene”( Spanish for Letter “N”)
Clothing and Bandannas red in color
Five point red star
Crips
Began as a Los Angeles street gang in the 1960's. Has since multiplied, split
and fractured. Generally membership is comprised of people of African descent.
There are numerous Crip gangs. Crip Gangs are found throughout the country,
usually around urban centers. Some individual groups of crips may be organized
some may not be. Some groups of Crips maybe enemies of other groups of Crips.
The traditional enemies of the Bloods. There is no recognizable centralized
leadership.
Identifiers-
Blue colored clothing or bandannas
In speech replacing the letter “B” with the letter “C”
Refer to each other as “cousin” or “cuz”
Six pointed star
Phrase – community revolution in progress
Bloods
The Bloods egan as a Los Angeles street gang in 1972. Traditional enemies of the Crips.
Not as numerous as the Crips. Generally has a better organization structure.
Membership is usually people of African descent. Found throughout the U.S.
usually in urban centers. Not as much into fighting as the Crips.
Identifiers-
Red colored clothing or bandannas
In speech replacing the letter “C” with the letter “B”
Mara Salvatrucha or MS-13
Began as a Los Angeles street gang in the 1980's by Salvadoran immigrants.
may consist of members from or descended from many central American countries.
Very well organized. Found in at least 31 U.S. states, Mexico, Canada, the
United Kingdom and Germany. very ruthless gang.
Identifiers-
Tattoos of MS, MS-13, devil horns or “salvatrucha”
The preceding is just a short summary list. Time and space prohibit me from listing other gangs.
I probably couldn't list them all if I wanted to, so I will show you how you can
find out who is active in your area.
How to Find Out More
The first thing you need to do is be aware of your surroundings. pay attention
when you drive to work or when make your monthly Costco run. Take a look at
what's going on in your neighborhood. You may not need to worry about gang
activity at your retreat location but you may need to pass through affected
areas to get to your retreat. Suburban retreaters should pay close attention
to their situation no matter what part of the country they live in.
Your Tools
Your Own Observations
These observations are the most important if your area has been affected by
gang activity you may notice some things. These are some things to look for:
Graffiti
Gangs use graffiti like a bulletin board or a property boundary. Graffiti will
also serve as a warning to rival gangs. Pay attention to colors of the graffiti.
A commonly re- occurring color could be an indicator . Look for re-occurring
numbers or roman numerals. Also look for re-occurring names or abbreviation.
Try to remember or take a quick note of what you see for later reference.
Groups of Young Men
Most gang members are in the age group of 15-25 and predominately male. Now
every group of young men is obviously not a gang. Use your judgment and take
note of what you see. Look for similar colored clothing. If you have high school
age kids in public schools or know some, ask them. They might have some knowledge
you wouldn't be able to get anywhere else.
Tattoos
Tattoos are like a gang member business card. Kind of like - “this is
the group I belong to and these are my accomplishments.” Gang members
tattoos are usually very distinctive. A lot of gang members wind up in jail
or prison and often get tattoos while incarcerated. Jailhouse "tats" are
easily recognizable. Do a little internet research to find jail house or prison
tattoo pictures. Once again look for recurring themes, names, symbols, numbers
and roman numerals.
Information Resources
Law Enforcement
The most aware of local gang activity is probably going to be local law enforcement.
If you know a local officer ask them what is going on in the area. Most officers
will probably be willing to spend a few moments talking to a concerned citizen
and may have a lot of useful information
If your local area has a “Gang Task Force” or a similarly named
unit it's probably a good indication that there are problems in your area.
I don't know how much information a unit like that will be willing to give
you, but it's probably worth it to call the department and ask. You may get
a standard response prepared for the public, but you also could get a lot of
good information. I may attract some Ire for saying that you probably shouldn't
speak to Law Enforcement Administrators. IMO they may try to embellish or downplay
current conditions for political or other reasons. You shouldn't have to worry
about it though, most upper management types probably wouldn't want to talk
to a concerned citizen unless you are friends with someone important.
Local News Agencies
Local news media is another great resource. Granted they can tend to be over
dramatic and not always completely accurate but viewed objectively can be
very informative. Watch the local evening news and pay attention to trends.
If you don't have television, then subscribe to a newspaper. Many small newspapers
have a crime blotter, this is a great feature. An increasing amount of reported graffiti
vandalism could be an indicator of gang encroachment. Once again pay attention to trends.
If the crime description says that the crime was gang related then you have
a good indication of activity in your area
The Internet
The Internet has an absolute wealth of information. There are numerous gang
information web sites. I would recommend knowing which gang you
are looking for before starting a search, as you could be overloaded with
information. Some web sites you may want to take a look at are:
GangInk.com – This
web site has Chicago area gang information
Eviltattoo.com
GangWatchers.org
KnowGangs.com – This is a very good web site IMHO.
Wikipedia has
good general information if you know specifically what gang you are looking
for. [JWR Adds: Wikipedia also has several pages specifically
about gangs outside the US]
You should also know that many gangs or gang members have their own web sites.
These are definitely worth checking out if applicable to your area or circumstance.
Books
There have been many books written by a number of former and current
law enforcement officers as well as former gang members. These can be very
valuable resources. Many of these can be found in the Paladin
Press book catalog.
One book I definitely recommend is “The Gang Investigator's Handbook” by
Matthew David O'Dean Ph.D. and is available through Paladin Press. Books written
by
former gang members are usually specific to their individual gang and will
therefore require you to specifically know what gang(s) you have in your area
and proceeding appropriately.
The prospect of having to deal with gangs is not pleasant. In the event of
a collapse that prospect only becomes worse. Use this information I've given
you to find out if you should be immediately concerned. We must all be aware
that crime traditionally increases in time of economic stress. With our country
in its current state things could become very interesting. Don't say to yourself: “I
don't need to worry about it.” Do some research and be prepared.
