NCJ Number
236621
Date Published
June 2011
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This report presents the findings from the Arizona Statistical Analysis Center's 2010 survey of law enforcement officers in the State regarding gangs and gang activity within their jurisdictions, with attention to Pima County.
Abstract
All four Pima County agencies that responded to the survey in 2010 reported an active gang presence within their respective jurisdictions. Three of the agencies that reported the presence of gang activity provided estimates of the number of gang members within their jurisdictions. They estimated that there were 5,212 active gang members across their jurisdictions. One of the four agencies with a gang presence reported that gangs were expanding their membership and scope of activities. Two of the responding agencies reported that gang activity had increased slightly during the previous 6- and 12-month periods. When asked about the last 5 years, two agencies reported that gang activity had increased significantly; another agency reported that gang activity had not changed, and one agency reported that gang activity had decreased slightly. All four agencies listed assault/aggravated assault as the primary crime being committed by gangs. Half of the responding agencies reported that gangs had a high level of involvement in the distribution of crack cocaine, and one agency indicated high involvement of gangs in the distribution of marijuana. One agency reported high involvement in the distribution of heroin; and one agency reported high involvement in the distribution of methamphetamine. The Bloods, Hispanic Surenios (SUR 13), Crips, Mexican Mafia/La Eme, and neighborhood-based drug trafficking groups/crews were the gangs reported as having a high level of activity in Pima County. Two of the four Pima County agencies that responded to the survey reported that they participated in a multiagency task force in 2009. One agency indicated its participation in the Gang Intelligence and Immigration Team Enforcement Mission (GITTEM). 8 tables and 3 figures