NCJ Number
148934
Journal
CJ The Americas Volume: 4 Dated: (August-September 1991) Pages: 1,17-18
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Home invaders are Asian gangs, particularly ethnic Vietnamese gangs, that represent a new form of organized criminal activity and require efforts by law enforcement agencies and community leaders to minimize the potential harm to the Asian community and the general population.
Abstract
These gang members use the same tactics that gangs used in refugee camps, although gang membership is not limited to individuals suffering from social and family dislocation, lack of education, and trauma. Some gang members are high achievers academically and have strong family ties. Home invaders rely heavily on intimidation tactics. They often threaten to kill the victim, threaten to shoot the children, or fire warning shots within the home. They depend on the victim's fear of retaliation to complete their robberies. They choose Asian victims because they are aware that many Asian families distrust banks and keep large amounts of cash and jewelry in their homes. They also understand that many Asians are reluctant to speak to authorities for fear of retribution or retaliation by gang members. Victims also distrust the United States criminal justice system, which releases suspected perpetrators pending trial. Law enforcement officials have been criticized for taking a reactive position. To address the issues, they should provide training and adequate resources to line officers and investigators, meet with community leaders, develop public awareness programs, recruit Vietnamese and Asian police officers, obtain political support for strict punishment for offenders, and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies to exchange vital information. Map and 5 references