NCJ Number
224162
Date Published
2008
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study investigated the issue of gangs and gang activity in North Carolina since 1998.
Abstract
Data from the Criminal Justice Analysis Center of North Carolina Governor’s Crime Commission survey provides a snapshot of gangs and gang members drawn from those agencies that responded to the survey and were able to provide data on the number of gangs and gang members within their respective jurisdictions. Of the 161 responding agencies, 128 or 80 percent reported that 1 or more gangs were currently active in their jurisdictions. Of the 1,446 identified gangs, detailed information was provided for 766 distinct groups. Other information provided included: a comprehensive definition of a gang; reasons for a rise in gangs, gang memberships, and gang-related crime; location of gangs; distinguishing features of North Carolina’s gangs; demographic features of gangs in North Carolina; and law enforcement response to the gang situation. Data were collected from 161 surveys which were completed and returned by staff from local police departments and sheriffs’ offices for a response rate of 32 percent. These 161 agencies are located in 75 of the State’s 100 counties. Data from the National Drug Intelligence Center were also analyzed and incorporated in an effort to supplement survey results and provide a more valid and complete snapshot of gangs across the State. Figures, tables, references, and notes