NCJ Number
73055
Date Published
1980
Length
27 pages
Annotation
Highlights of the 1979 annual report of the Georgia Organized Crime Prevention Council are presented.
Abstract
Like previous annual reports, this edition is organized to report on the council's areas of responsibility to the governor, the State, and the public at large. In 1979, illegal drug trafic continued to be the primary source of revenue for organized crime in the State. Because of the extent of the problem, accurate figures cannot be compiled; however, the estimated street value of drugs flowing through Georgia in 1979 was $4 billion. Gambling is the second most lucrative source of organized crime revenue in Georgia: total gambling revenue for 1979 is estimated to be $565 million, an increase over 1978 of $1.6 million. The enactment of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization statute and tougher drug laws that were drafted in 1979 gives law enforcement more effective tools for the investigation and prosecution of organized criminal activities. During 1979, a very successful 'sting' operation was concluded and several other projects were begun. Additionally, on the National level, Georgia participated in Project Leviticus, a seven-State investigation of organized criminal activities in the Nation's coal fields. Statewide, the 'Locals to Help Locals' program, whereby local agencies and the Georgia Organized Crime Prevention Council will assist other local agencies in need with personnel and equpiment, was conceived in 1979 for implementation in 1980. An appendix contains council bylaws. (Author abstract modified)