NCJ Number
191274
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 25 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2001 Pages: 60-63
Date Published
July 2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the nature, activities, and geographic spread of a gang called Asian Boyz that had its origins in Los Angeles in the late 1980’s.
Abstract
Asian Boyz grew from a Cambodian gang and drew its members from Cambodian, Laotian, Vietnamese, ethnic Chinese born in Vietnam, Chinese youths, and other groups. The lax membership rules enabled the gang to grow quickly. Some members relocated to find work. Others left the area because their parents moved to find new jobs. Others left to flee law enforcement or to live with extended family or friends. Asian Boyz gangs developed throughout the country, especially along the west coast and in the Midwest. Asian Boyz have become one of the more violent gangs encountered by criminal justice professionals. Many members use blue-colored railroad handkerchiefs as part of their attire. The gangs make money by committing street crimes and seek to enhance their reputation within the gang subculture. Their crimes center mainly around murder, home invasion robbery, extortion, witness intimidation, attempted murder, robbery, and assault. Some gang members have sold drugs. Many Asian Boyz crimes are crimes of opportunity. Leadership is fluid. The gangs may also have an affiliate female gang known as the Asian Chicks, who carry contraband, including guns. Photographs