NCJ Number
177431
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 23 Issue: 5 Dated: May 1999 Pages: 16-23
Date Published
1999
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Started in 1997 at New York's Rikers Island prison, this model corrections program uses an extensive database, networking, and shared assignments to deal with the increasing number of incarcerated gang members.
Abstract
The New York City Department of Corrections formed the Gang Intelligence Unit (GIU) in March 1997 and soon after installed an enhanced computer program to compile the department's security risk group information into one database. The department also initiated networking efforts to encourage collaboration between corrections and law enforcement agencies. The GIU tracks about 55 security risk groups at Rikers Island, including major national gangs such as Latin Kings, Bloods, Crips, and Neatas. The GIU also tracks groups that are affiliated with organized crime and narcotics. Detailed information cards are supplied to all correctional officers to keep track of these groups. In addition to documenting gang codes, computer information used by the GIU includes basic personal data such as name, gang affiliation, gang rank, mannerisms, weapons, enemies, associates, warrants, prior arrests, and physical characteristics. Additionally, the computer system tracks housing assignments, classifications, work details, movement to and from courts, and visit information. Correctional investigators from Rikers Island are assigned to the New York Police Department's intelligence division and the Cold Case Squad that handles gang-related crimes and unsolved homicides, the New York High Intensity Drug Trafficking Unit, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The effectiveness of the model program in gang tracking and prevention is demonstrated and its use in other jurisdictions is discussed. 4 figures and 4 photographs