NCJ Number
162307
Date Published
1995
Length
38 pages
Annotation
This Task Force report summarizes the findings from a statewide survey of gang problems in Wisconsin and what is being done about gangs by law enforcement.
Abstract
State and local law enforcement agencies throughout Wisconsin were asked to complete a questionnaire about the gang problem in their areas; more than 40 percent of the agencies responded. Findings as they are presented in six categories include: (1) Nature of the Gang Crime Threat (80 percent report gangs as a problem, mostly at a minor to moderate level; drug sales, burglary, violence, graffiti, car theft, and retail theft are the most frequently cited gang crime patterns); (2) Limited Law Enforcement Resources to Deal With the Gang Problem (92.1 percent of the agencies do not use a statewide gang tracking computer system, even though 94 percent have seen gang influence from outside their jurisdiction); (3) Gangs in Relation to Other Factors (correctional institutions or public housing in the area, motorcycle gangs); (4) The Gangster Disciple Connection (gang migration, organized crime); (5) Characteristics of the Law Enforcement Sample; and (6) Beliefs About the Gang Problem (the role of the Federal Government, social workers, and the media; policy choices). Tables, references, endnotes